Kneeling, facing flag, hand on heart respectful

This is in response to current events, nonviolent protesting, and respect of our flag and anthem.

I thank the Times Union for the June 6 picture on Page B2.

It depicts the sidelines during the playing of our national anthem near the start of an NFL game. I tip my hat to the coach with his hand over his heart. He is closest to showing the proper respect as recommended by 36 U.S. Code Part A — Patriotic and National Observances and Ceremonies. According to President Donald Trump, and many others, only those who kneel during the anthem are being disrespectful to the flag, when, in fact, they would be disrespectful to the anthem. What about the others not facing the flag, not standing at attention with their right hands on their hearts? Where are the president and others on this?

As for the players who are kneeling, I have begrudgingly supported their action from the start. I would go further to say that the two players kneeling in an upright stance, hand on their hearts, and facing the flag are being more respectful than the people just standing. These players should encourage, as I will, all of our brothers and sisters to protest in a similar manner. Thanks to Colin Kaepernick for kneeling and taking a stance, and thanks to Kenny Stills and Michael Thomas for showing me that the protest can be made in a respectful manner.

Everyone, including the president, should review and know the proper respect. Everyone needs to learn that as citizens they should pay their respects. It has been a pet peeve of mine that the respect that should be given to our anthem is frequently not followed by many, including us in the stands. I do not support people who loosely interpret rules and regulations to support their needs. I did not spend 20 years of my life so that basic human rights of people in the United States can continue to be trampled. Walter stoeckl

Glenville U.S. Navy, retired