Donald Trump has sparked controversy online after making a salute during the national anthem at the Super Bowl on February 9, 2025. The gesture drew immediate backlash, with many social media users questioning why he would salute when he had never served in the military. Trump, who avoided the draft five times during the Vietnam War, was criticized for seemingly appropriating a military gesture. One Instagram user questioned, “Why is he saluting if he was never in the military?” while others called it “a global embarrassment.” Trump’s deferments, including one for bone spurs, kept him from serving. Despite this, he attended the Super Bowl to support the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles, praising the players as symbols of the American Dream and recognizing the sacrifices made by military and first responders.