Military Widow’s Poignant Response to NFL Crisis: ‘Be a Grateful Nation’

"My family's perspective on what the American flag stands for completely changed," Gold Star wife Marcie Roberston writes.

Marcie Robertson lost the love of her life, U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Forrest Robertson, on November 3, 2013, in Afghanistan. I interviewed the grieving Gold Star wife shortly after her husband made that ultimate sacrifice.

As soon as our phone conversation began, I was immediately struck by Marcie’s resilience. Nearly four years later, Marcie continues the unimaginably difficult task of raising three young girls who are growing up without being able to hug their dad.

Forrest, Marcie and their children define the meaning of courage. They have sacrificed more for our country than almost any American can comprehend.

Just before going to bed on Monday night, I read a poignant Facebook post by Marcie about the ongoing NFL National Anthem controversy. With Marcie’s permission, I am sharing her post (embedded below) with readers of The Stream in the hopes that you will read and share, too.

God bless you, Marcie, for speaking out with such conviction and strength. Most of all, we are grateful for the enormous burden your family is shouldering for freedom and our flag. As your hero husband watches down on you and your girls from heaven, he must be so proud.