Michael Strahan is addressing the backlash he’s received since being filmed not touching his heart during the national anthem.
As part of Special Veterans Day segment Broadcast from the San Diego Naval Base on November 10, Strahan was seen standing with his co-hosts during the national anthem while his teammates did not put their hands on their chests. The move led to criticism and speculation that Strahan may have been trying to make a statement.
However, in a post on Instagram, Strahan addressed the criticism and dismissed theories that he was protesting: “I have nothing to protest. I have no statement. Just made a statement. Must go and what I want to give is that I love the army, I have always loved the army and I will always love the army.
“I do a lot of programs to help veterans and soldiers. I grew up on a military base with a father who was a major in the military. My brother, my sister, my cousins all served in the military. – I’m a military guy,” Strahan continued. “And so the truth of someone saying, you know, I’m unpatriotic, couldn’t be further from the truth.”
Strahan added that he was “caught up in the moment” by seeing the young sailors and Navy SEALs in attendance.
“I’m thinking to myself, ‘How incredible is it to be so young and know that you want to do this,'” Strahan said. “It’s a commitment, but you’re willing to do something that you know gets us our freedom, plain and simple.”
When he realized he didn’t have a hand on his heart, Strahan recalled being “somewhat nervous.” “I’m like, ‘Am I the idiot who puts his hand over his heart after this or do I stand here with my hands folded in front of me in respect?’ Which, that’s what I did, that’s what happened.”
“If this has offended any of our troops and veterans, I apologize to you because that was never my intention,” Strahan ended the video. “I am a product of the military, a proud lover of the military, and a proud lover of all those who have served, now and in the future.”
Amid the criticism, Strahan co-hosted Fox Sports Jay Glazer defended her. wrote on social media, “Let me tell you, I don’t know of a friend who is more proud of his military roots than Michael, who constantly talks about growing up on an Army base. He learned from his father, Major Gene, and how his time there shaped him Soldiers were seen donating thousands of dollars worth of clothing, including Many include clothing for homeless veterans as well as veterans who may go to job interviews.”
For Veterans Day, Strahan He paid tribute to his father“This is my hero, this is my father and hero Major Gene W. Strahan, Sr. He served 23 years in the Army and was a proud member of the 82nd Airborne Division. The way I would honor my father. Yes, I keep you all in my thoughts every day because we wouldn’t have the security and freedom we love without you. Thank you.”
Credit : www.hollywoodreporter.com
