Middletown veterans on NFL anthem protest: There has to be better way

Two Middletown veterans agreed that everyone should be allowed to protest, but they’re against players — or anyone — kneeling during the national anthem.

Too many lives were lost protecting the flag, they said.

“There is a time and a place for everything and during the national anthem isn’t the right time or place,” said Bill Lewis, 70, a retired Marine. “Whatever do you, don’t disrespect the flag. If you’re against the police and how you’re being treated, don’t protest the anthem. There has to be a better way.”

About 150 NFL players took a knee — or protested in some other way — before or during the playing of the national anthem last Sunday. Many did it to protest or call attention to what they feel are instances of racial injustice or police brutality. Others did it to express solidarity with, or support for, fellow players.

Lewis said the protests only racially divide the country more.

Mike Mathews, 82, an Army veteran who was sitting next to Lewis at the American Post 218 canteen, agreed.

“Nothing but hate,” Mathews said when asked what the protests are creating.

Mathews, who immigrated to the United States from Greece when he was 16 years old, said he has seen a change in the country.

“This is not the America it was when I came here,” he said. “Not the America I know and love.”

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