Local VFW protests NFL by burning jerseys

LINCOLNTON, N.C. — Members of VFW Post 1706 in Lincolnton burned the jerseys of players they think disrespect the U.S. flag.

"I'm not sorry. I done it and I'll do it again," Burnell Tipton said.

Tipton was a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers until this year.

On Saturday, he burned his Ben Roethlisberger jersey because the quarterback previously refused to come out on the field during the national anthem.

Julius Peppers protested the same way. Another VFW member joined Tipton by burning the Carolina Panthers defensive end's jersey.

"It's fine if you want to protest," Tipton said. "But there's a way to do it, and a way not to do it, not against our flags and the veterans who died (for) our country."

William McCarter lives nearby and disagrees with how the VFW is approaching this.

He said the players have every right to voice their opinion and protest.

"If you want to kneel in the national anthem, kneel," he said. "If you want to stand during the national anthem, stand."

It's more than just burning jerseys for Tipton. He's refusing to watch another NFL game.

He also said he won't hesitate to start another fiery demonstration.

"I will support nobody who don't support our country," he said.

Cox Media Group