It is no secret that there has been a controversy surrounding the NFL because of the player protests during the national anthem.  As a veteran, I made the decision for myself to not watch professional football while protests continue – and that includes the Superbowl.

As a fan of the game, I have been disappointed.  As an American Citizen, I felt it was important to take some action, to speak up about the issue.  So this is how I am spending Superbowl Sunday.

I am here at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Odessa, Texas.  There are two Medal of Honor recipients buried here.

“Corporal Alfred Mac Wilson was born in Illinois, and was a Marine serving in Vietnam when he threw himself on a grenade to protect his unit.   His Medal was posthumously awarded to his family on April 20, 1970.

Army Staff Sargent Marvin Rex Young was born in Texas, and also served in Vietnam.  Despite facing overwhelming forces and multiple wounds himself, Staff Sargent Young declined medical attention and engaged the enemy so that his unit could withdraw safely.  His Medal was posthumously awarded to his family on April 7, 1970.

Two great Americans, who gave their life in service to this country.  If respect for them is not enough reason to jump to your feet when you hear the National Anthem, I don’t know what is.

But it is also not the end of my Superbowl Sunday – There is someone else at this cemetery that I want to tell you about.

Daryl Hunt is also laid to rest here, not too far from the Medal of Honor recipients.  Daryl was born here in Odessa, and he played football.  For the Permian Panthers, for Oklahoma University, and for the Houston Oilers.  A former teammate described Daryl as “a quiet leader, always had a big smile on his face”, who “set an example”.

Three great Americans.  They all play for the same team now.  Let’s set aside our differences and follow their example – lets be great Americans.  Together.  Let’s solve our problems – together.  Let’s listen to each other, without disrespect.  Let’s not wait until our final rest to come together.

Please Stand Toghether