Honoring Veterans Day, Hall of Famer Michael Strahan and his Fox NFL Sunday teammates took part in a special broadcast from Naval Base San Diego on November 10, 2024 Celebrated annually by Fox Sports, the event honors the men and women of the United States Armed Forces for their commitment and selflessness. The event was supposed to honor military service with the seven-man team standing alongside troops. But the day took an unanticipated turn when viewers objected to Strahan’s position during the national anthem

Strahan stood with his team as The Star-Spangled Banner was performed over the loudspeakers, hands over their hearts in the traditional sign of respect. But Strahan stood with his arms sloppily folded in front of him, setting up an internet firestorm. Critics expressed their indignation right once, charging the former NFL player of disrespecting the soldiers during a day meant for honors.

Quick to voice their displeasure at Strahan’s posture, viewers turned to social media to call him out.

“Why couldn’t Michaelstrahan put his hand over his heart during the US Navy Band playing the National Anthem?” one said

Why couldn’t Michaelstrahan put his hand over his heart during the US Navy Band playing the National Anthem?” one said. Another said, “Disgusting!” Disrespectful! Reflecting the opinion of many who felt his posture unsuitable for the event. Some were more harsh in their criticism, one viewer marking the star directly: “@michaelstrahan Discreet. You ought to feel guilty. Others insisted immediate action; some even urged his firing. “Fire @ Michael Stuart-Han.” So disrespectful!! One user boldly posted. Another accused Strahan of purposefully omitting the move, adding, “Someone should ask @michaelstrahan why he doesn’t place his hand over his heart during our national anthem?” That’s a rhetorical query. The solution is known to me already.