Marian Morreale made quite the statement last week ahead of the Buffalo Sabres first game. The 94-year-old veteran stood up for the National Anthem, on her one leg.
“I was afraid I was going to cry. And I couldn't blow my nose because I couldn't let go of the walker. So, I was scared to death,” said Morreale about standing in front of thousands.
Marian served in the Coast Guard during World War II. The anthem is mounted on her living room wall. An anthem that symbolizes what she believes in.
“It means my freedom. My choice to live as I want to live, and a place that's the greatest in the world, the U.S.,” added Morreale.
The statement Marian made had very little do with National Anthem protests that are happening in the NFL.
“It's nothing against the men that are doing what they are doing. They have a right to do it. I don't think it's right. But, I'm not mad about that,” she said.
She simply wanted to show her love for her country. Marian trained for the moment for three months, it just so happens, she stood on a politically charged week.
Even a moment as special as this came with one regret. She didn't stand for the Canadian anthem.
“I meant no disrespect because I love my Canadian neighbors. They're good people,” said Morreale.
Marian says she's a private person, but is willing to offer one piece of advice for a better, more unified, country.
“I just think that people better start loving each other.”
