#VeteransForKaepernick goes viral as soldiers defend Colin Kaepernick's national anthem stance

NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s refusal to stand for the national anthem has caused some of his critics to accuse him of being disrespectful to America—and especially to veterans. But many veterans are coming forward to say the exact opposite.

The #VeteransForKaepernick hashtag on social media is being used by current and former members of the armed forces to express their solidarity and support for the quarterback.

https://twitter.com/GenuinelySpoken/status/770801519113404416

I’m riding with 7…I fought for freedom not a song #VeteransForKaepernick pic.twitter.com/LZYUoHCbOT

— Phillip Richardson (@prich8604) August 31, 2016

#VeteransForKaepernick Because he’s fighting for what this country should be. What it can be. And what it will be. pic.twitter.com/BAnkKdWt2X

— Loebe-Wan Kenobi (@PaulLoebe) August 31, 2016

That isn’t to say there aren’t veterans out there taking the opposite view. But maybe think twice before assuming all veterans are fans of performative patriotism.