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Tulsa American Legion not in support of Colin Kaepernick's national anthem protest

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San Francisco 49's quarterback Colin Kaepernick is making headlines after refusing to stand for the national anthem during Saturday night's preseason game against the Green Bay Packers and local veterans are not in support of Kaepernick's protest.

Newly appointed American Legion Post 1 Commander, Gary Wall, says although he did not agree with Kaepernick's actions the U.S. Is indeed a free nation.

“My initial reaction was that's an extremely disrespectful thing to do, but it's his right. We fought for these rights and he's free to do that,” Wall said.

Wall, who served in the Marine Corps, took over Post 1 just after a fire destroyed more than 300 American flags that honored soldiers and veterans during special events.

Since the fire, the American Legion has acquired tremendous support from the Tulsa community accepting more than 1000 donated flags from individuals and other veteran organizations.

Therefore, the decision Kaepernick made to sit during the time to honor the flag before professional sporting events has not been popular amongst Tulsans. 

Kaepernick decision to protest was the result after a recent string of police brutality towards the African American community. The 5th year NFL player says he will continue to sit for the remainder of the season until he feels change is enacted within law enforcement.     

“I'll continue to sit. I'm going to continue to stand with the people that are being oppressed,” Kaepernick said.

As Kaepernick continues to receive scrutiny from many, Wall says he would like to see the QB use his voice to help create change off the field instead of continuing to sit during the national anthem.

“I think what he's wanting to do would be served if he would get out and talk to civic groups the media and this and that,” Wall said. 
 

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