Super Bowl 2025: Trump’s salute during National Anthem sparks debate on his Military Service

During the Super Bowl 2025, former President Donald Trump saluted while the national anthem was being performed by Jon Batiste. This led to discussions on social media, as many wondered if Trump had ever served in the military. Others around him placed their hands over their hearts, following the usual practice.

Traditionally, only people in military uniform salute during the national anthem, but there is no law stopping civilians from doing so. A video showed Trump saluting while the crowd cheered.

Debate over Trump’s military history

Many social media users questioned whether Trump was allowed to salute, given that he never served in the military. Some pointed out that as the former commander-in-chief, he had the right to do so.

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Trump never served in the military. He received college draft deferments four times and later got another deferment due to bone spurs in his heels during the Vietnam War. However, he did attend a military school as a teenager.

Trump was also the first sitting U.S. president to attend a Super Bowl. He has had a long history with the NFL, including criticizing league commissioner Roger Goodell over rule changes and protests during the national anthem.