The National Rifle Association are known for their bizarre tactics, not least on social media.
In recent years, the pro-gun organisation has taken to promoting other political causes that align with its conservative agenda. This time, the group are calling out people who “take the knee” or kneel during the American national anthem.
“Taking the knee” is a form of protest designed to highlight the issue of police brutality against African Americans in the United States. The movement was started by former NFL player Colin Kaepernick.
"When you take a knee during our National Anthem you disrespect the men and women who lost their limbs so you could… https://t.co/ZhregWAGcO— NRATV (@NRATV) 1543612586
In the short video, posted on the NRA’s official Twitter account, the group claim that those who kneel during the national anthem are disrespecting Iraq war veterans with missing limbs.
But one war vet was not having any of it. Steven Kiernan responded to the group saying that he had lost limbs in Iraq and would kneel for the national anthem if he could.
Hey @NRA I lost both my legs in Iraq and the only thing I'm upset over is not being able to kneel alongside them, y… https://t.co/wv1wskixCR— Steven Kiernan (@Steven Kiernan) 1543636279
Wanna help support progressive vets push back against garbage like this? Check out @commondefense and sign up for… https://t.co/cjBgZhIczP— Steven Kiernan (@Steven Kiernan) 1543708387
The tweet went viral, prompting others to share their experiences and beliefs.
@MsgToObserver @NRA The @NRA doesn't own the rights to patriotism. Period.— NateWill (@NateWill) 1543718146
@MsgToObserver @NRA ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ I cannot thank you enough for your service and your dedication to protecting freed… https://t.co/tKSEYcSKny— Greg Abbott must GO. ❤️🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸 (@Greg Abbott must GO. ❤️🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸) 1543700880
@MsgToObserver @NRA Steven you sir understand what the USA constitution is all about!!! Thank you for your service— Scott McHale (@Scott McHale) 1543760338
@MsgToObserver @NRA From one veteran to another, Thank you soooo much for your Service. And I will KNEEL for you!!!!!— Deborah A. Clark (@Deborah A. Clark) 1543708125
@MsgToObserver @NRA Thank you to all the Military persons commenting! Thank you for your service and your families… https://t.co/ChkPwMrbBv— This country has gone bat shit crazy! Lord help us (@This country has gone bat shit crazy! Lord help us) 1543752075
@MsgToObserver @NRA Thank you for your service and sacrifice.— Michele Haberman (@Michele Haberman) 1543710469
For an organisation so fond of guns, the NRA certainly seem to love getting shot down for their ridiculous claims.
More: People are sending the NRA sarcastic 'thoughts and prayers' amid rumours of financial difficulties
