I just heard this interview on NPR. Relatively young ex-NFL player ex-green beret talking about his team-mate Colin Kaepernick who was remaining seated during the National Anthem. Nate thought he should stand but suggested that Colin, if he was resolute in not standing, assume the 'take a knee' position, which showed respect. Which Colin did. This I had not known before.

And bless 'em, NPR went on with the interview and elicited a show of true understanding from Nate Boyer, a blend of tolerance, compassion, to go with the patriotism. The interview is just under ten minutes.

To my mind this interview bookends the article from the OP about Stanislaw Aronson. Old and young, European and American, sharing experiences of how bad it can really be out there. Both these guys have learned something and know how to put it into words.