LANDOVER, Md. -- Every member of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Washington Redskins stood for Monday night's National Anthem in Landover, MD.
They took their stand one step further and held the giant American flag alongside members of the United States military during the singing of the National Anthem at FedEx field.
Redskins coach, Jay Gruden weighed in on the situation before the game and said his team would "stand up and give respect."
Steelers coach, Mike Tomlin explained how his team wanted to honor their teammate, Alejandro Villanueva, former U.S. Army Ranger that received the Bronze Star for serving three tours in Afghanistan. He said "I know all of our players will be standing out of respect for their teammate, Alejandro Villanueva."
The teams standing side by side, holding the red, white and blue went viral on social media as 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick continues to make headlines for his ongoing protests.
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Here are some of the reactions to Monday night's viral moment.
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) September 12, 2016
Steelers and Redskins help hold the giant American flag spread across the field. Everyone on both sides standing as far I could tell.
— Ray Fittipaldo (@rayfitt1) September 12, 2016
The entire #Redskins team left the sideline to assist military personnel hold the flag during the anthem. pic.twitter.com/OsBS5Z3CEH
— Master Tesfatsion (@MasterTes) September 12, 2016
.@Steelers & Armed Forces hold an American Flag during during the National Anthem prior to game vs. Redskins. pic.twitter.com/6qM0OYbtSk
— Charles Palla (@ChazPalla) September 12, 2016
Steelers, Redskins fans cheer at end of National Anthem tonight (via @jwpipes) pic.twitter.com/Xk1xpG3S2z
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) September 12, 2016
