Asselin letter: NFL protests
The American flag and national anthem represent two things. One, what our country stands for and two, honoring our military veterans. All Americans stand and men remove their hats to acknowledge and honor our country and its veterans during our national anthem. Any other choices, no matter how you slice it, twist it, lie about it or cover up your intentions, you are being disrespectful period. The kneeling or not standing are choices that have divided our society just like the “Black Lives Matter” movement. The words and actions speak for themselves and create negative rather than positive feelings. Everyone should stand and place their hand over their heart as Alejandro Villanueva, an NFL player and former Army Ranger, did while the rest of his team chose inappropriate actions. Alejandro is the real role model and hero here. To get respect you have to earn it. Living in America is not a right, it’s a privilege. America is lucky that these individuals with their sick attitudes don’t fight for our country or we would not have these two precious symbols as we do today. Respect our flag and national anthem and thank our veterans.
Ron Asselin, Boise
This story was originally published October 5, 2017 at 11:34 PM with the headline "Asselin letter: NFL protests."