Alongside Fox NFL Sunday’s special broadcast from Naval Base San Diego on November 10, 2024, the customarily solemn Veterans Day celebration took an unexpected turn. The purpose of Fox Sports’ yearly event is to honor the US Armed Forces’ steadfast service. At this commemoration gathering, Michael Strahan and other members of the broadcast crew stood with the military. But when Strahan’s position during the playing of the national anthem sparked a lot of debate, the subject immediately changed.
Strahan adopted a different stance, keeping his arms folded nonchalantly, as his squad lowered their hands over their hearts in observance of The Star-Spangled Banner. Many people quickly expressed their disgust and interpreted his stance as disrespectful during an event honoring those in military service, which sparked a rush of internet replies.
Many people took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, and the backlash was swift and loud.
“Why couldn’t Michael Strahan put his hand over his heart when the US Navy Band was playing the National Anthem?” said a worried fan. “Disgraceful!” said another, reflecting the opinions of many who thought his position was unsuitable. Some criticisms were blunt, using strong language to criticize Strahan: ““@michaelstrahan Disrespectful. You should be ashamed.”
Despite the numerous calls for action, including demands for his dismissal from Fox Sports, not everyone equated Strahan’s posture with disrespect. Some individuals defended him, suggesting his posture was respectful in its way, even without the usual hand-over-heart gesture.
Amidst the strong reactions, Strahan opted to respond thoughtfully rather than confrontationally. He shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram to veterans, signaling his deep respect for their service and sacrifices.
He commented, “All veterans and active-duty members who bravely risk themselves every day to protect us deserve immense gratitude. Your humble service is beyond words,” accompanied by a photograph of his father, Maj. Gene W. Strahan, Sr.—a respected 23-year U.S. Army veteran of the 82nd Airborne Division.
Michael Strahan disrespected the military during a Veterans Day pre-game show on @NFLonFOX. The great irony is Strahan on a ship surrounded by men and women who would willingly sacrifice their lives to protect his freedom. So, his behavior is not just repugnant, it’s downright… pic.twitter.com/iIXqChfLCW— toddstarnes (@toddstarnes) November 10, 2024
With sincerity, he further added, “As I honor my father, I also cherish all of you in my thoughts daily. Without you, our safety and freedoms would be very different. Thank you,” highlighting his appreciation for those in service.
Strahan’s tribute to his father and all veterans serves as testament to his longstanding respect for the military. His established presence reveals a consistent expression of gratitude for those who serve, showing clarity in his intentions despite divergent views on his conduct.
We conclude our show at the Naval Base San Diego with the national anthem 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/lDb2g6oF0f— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 10, 2024
Whether his actions during the anthem were simply an alternative form of respect or a slip from standards, Strahan’s acknowledgment and tribute to his father’s service and other members of the military remain significant. His message underscores the day’s true essence: deep appreciation for those defending the freedoms we treasure.
In the end, was Michael Strahan’s gesture indeed respectful in its own way, or did it overstep expected norms? Is the criticism justified, or is it overly harsh? Feel free to share your thoughts below.
