South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster (R.) on Tuesday issued a proclamation calling for South Carolinians to stand in their homes before the Super Bowl kick off.
The GOP governor issued an official proclamation titled "Stand for the Flag Super Bowl Sunday" to recognize and honor the sacrifices of those who served, the Post and Courier reported.
McMaster’s proclamation comes in opposition of the actions of players, coaches, and owners who knelt, sat, or remained in the locker room during the national anthem at NFL games throughout the season.
"Our national anthem, the ‘Star Spangled Banner,’ describes the American flag and the bravery and sacrifice of those who have fought and died to defend it," the proclamation says. "The governor’s proclamation encourages all South Carolinians to stand for the playing of the national anthem prior to Super Bowl LII."
McMaster hopes the decision by many to stand on Feb. 4 will show the world that the state of South Carolina is committed to supporting the troops.
The former lieutenant governor is one of four GOP candidates running in the 2018 gubernatorial race. He succeeded to the governor's office when Nikki Haley resigned to become the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. McMaster previously served in the U.S. Army Reserves for six years after graduating from the University of South Carolina in 1969.
South Carolina is home to a number of military installations and around 417,000 veterans.