ONE SHINING STAR ON A DARK SUNDAY

NFL player Alejandro Villanueva stood sharply at attention and saluted the flag

Sunday was a dark day in the history of the United States. More than 200 NFL players refused to stand during the playing of the national anthem, including players in a game played in London. There was however one shining star on that dark day.

When the Pittsburg Steelers decided to stay off the field during the playing of the anthem, offensive tackle Alejandro Villanueva decided to honor our flag and country. Villanueva positioned himself outside the tunnel during the playing of the anthem. He stood sharply at attention and saluted the flag by holding his right hand over his heart.

Why did Villanueva choose to respect flag and country when so many NFL players chose to show their disrespect? It’s because Alejandro is a military veteran. He served three tours of duty in Afghanistan as a Captain in the army rangers. I’m sure Alejandro saw his fellow soldiers shed their blood for our country. A West Point graduate, Alejandro was awarded a Bronze Star for his heroism in combat.

When Colin Kaepernick first sat out the anthem, Villanueva said:

“I don't know if the most effective way is to sit down during the national anthem with a country that's providing you freedom, providing you $16 million a year ... when there are black minorities that are dying in Iraq and Afghanistan for less than $20,000 a year.”

Villanueva's teammates could be seen in the tunnel, a few of them standing at attention with the hand-over heart salute.

Alejandro Villanueva should be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom!