On Bended Knee, Kaepernick Sits For Anthem Surrounded By Troops
SAN DIEGO (CBSLA.com) — A sea of military and football fans stood for the National Anthem at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego Thursday night, but San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick did not, and he wasn't alone.
Last week, Kaepernick first sat during the National Anthem before a game saying he wouldn't stand for a country that oppresses black people and people of color.
Teammate Eric Reid joined Kaepernick on his knee for the anthem even after the 28th annual salute to the military. Retired Navy Seals parachuted into the stadium while 240 Marines, sailors and soldiers presented an American flag.
In a military town, it's no surprise there was very strong reaction.
"It's extremely disrespectful," a fan at the game said. "He shouldn't be playing football if he can't stand up for his country and support the men and women who put their lives on the line for you."
In Oakland, Seattle Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane also didn't stand for the anthem before the start of that game Thursday night.
"I wouldn't have expressed my feelings that way," Louis Paredes said. "He's getting paid enough to put up with what he's going through. He's a spoiled brat."
"He believes in what he wants to believe, I respect that," Richard Ramirez
Vietnam veteran C.C. Long says Kaepernick is free to sit, stand or kneel because of vets who fought for that freedom.
"I disagree with him, but I served so he could have his right to say what he wants to say. He has a right to do that. "
"You have a right, but I don't think it's the right right." Justin Frankfather said. "I think it's wrong; it's just respect."
