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.