Colin Kaepernick saluted by some military veterans

Colin Kaepernick's protest of the national anthem is apparently winning support from some military veterans on Twitter.

The San Francisco 49ers quarterback sparked controversy during the NFL's preseason by sitting instead of standing during the "Star-Spangled Banner." Kaepernick says he's protesting what he describes as oppression of minorities in the United States. Some who have criticized the protest said it was insulting to veterans.

But some people who identify themselves as veterans have tweeted pictures of themselves in uniform and messages of support under the hashtag #VeteransForKaepernick.

One said he served to protect freedoms, not a song.

Another said protesting is every American's right.

But in Reno, Nev., travellers at the Reno airport are protesting over a display that includes memorabilia from his days at the University of Nevada, where he was a star player before being drafted by the San Francisco 49ers.

An official at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport said Wednesday that the airport has received more than a hundred angry messages by phone, email and social media from locals and travelers who want Kaepernick's trophy, helmet and other memorabilia removed from the prominent display case. 

Others passing by have also offered disapproving hand gestures, hisses and venting in person.

Kaepernick says he will continue his protest ahead of Thursday's preseason game in San Diego.