(DailyVantage.com) – Michael Strahan, co-host of Good Morning America and an NFL analyst, issued an apology after receiving backlash for not placing his hand over his heart during the national anthem at a pre-Veterans Day broadcast from the Naval Base in San Diego. The event, a special Fox NFL Sunday broadcast, was meant to honor service members, but Strahan’s actions drew criticism online.
In a video posted to Instagram, Strahan addressed the controversy and emphasized his profound respect for the military. “The only statement that should be made and that I wanna make is that I love the military,” Strahan said, explaining that his upbringing as a “military brat” deeply shaped his values. His father, Maj. Gene W. Strahan, Sr., served in the Army, and Strahan noted that many of his family members, including his brother and sister, also served in the armed forces.
Strahan rejected accusations of being unpatriotic, describing them as entirely unfounded. He explained that during the anthem, he was captivated by the young sailors standing at attention. “I’m thinking to myself, ‘How incredible to be that young and willing to commit to something that gives us our freedoms,’” he said. In the moment, he didn’t realize his co-hosts had placed their hands over their hearts until it was too late. Strahan recalled feeling unsure whether to follow suit after the fact or continue standing respectfully with his hands in front of him.
Acknowledging the criticism, Strahan offered a heartfelt apology to any military personnel or veterans who might have been offended. “If that offended any of our military and veterans, I apologize to you because that was never my intent,” he said, reiterating his respect for the armed forces and their sacrifices.
On Veterans Day, Strahan took to Instagram to honor his father and all service members with a message and photographs, further reaffirming his unwavering appreciation for their contributions. Despite the backlash, Strahan used the moment to emphasize his lifelong admiration for the military, stating, “I’ve always loved the military, and I will always love the military.”
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