“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” – Elmer Davis

Hi All,

On this Veterans Day, I wanted to take a moment to recognize and honor our troops.

Many don't know that before Colin Kaepernick took a knee, he took a seat — during a preseason game in 2016. Then, he had a conversation with Army vet and former Seahawks long snapper Nate Boyer. “I suggested kneeling, because people kneel to pray; we’ll kneel in front of a fallen brother’s grave,” Boyer said in an interview about their conversation.

Shortly after Kaepernick began his protest, a group of Veterans wrote an open letter in support of him. They said:

Far from an anomaly, athletes leading on social change has been the norm in America. The right for those athletes, and all Americans, to protest is one we all pledged to defend with our lives if necessary. Far from disrespecting our troops, there is no finer form of appreciation for our sacrifice than for Americans to enthusiastically exercise their freedom of speech.

Thank you to all our veterans who have fought and served to protect our rights. You have given so much for our country, and for that, we are thankful.

Vic