Josh Yago, a Notre Dame lacrosse player, created a remarkable moment on Memorial Day before the NCAA Division I men’s lacrosse championship commenced. Yago, a graduate transfer from Air Force and a second lieutenant in the U.S. Space Force, demonstrated his patriotism by saluting during the national anthem in Charlottesville, as Notre Dame prepared to face Princeton.

The spectacle quickly gained viral attention. Videos of Yago’s tribute were widely shared on social media, accumulating hundreds of thousands of views. “SportsCenter” showcased Yago’s salute, wearing Notre Dame gear, as the national anthem played.

On Memorial Day, this salute felt even more profound. Yago wasn’t merely another athlete featured during the anthem. He spent four years at Air Force, became a top player, graduated, and transferred to Notre Dame for his final season. He intends to continue serving the country beyond his lacrosse career. Such a background made his anthem salute at the championship poignant. For many American sports fans, this display was exactly what they wished to witness.

Recent discussions often focus on athletes, the anthem, and patriotism, sometimes becoming overly political or contentious. Yet, Yago’s salute wasn’t about seeking notoriety; it was about honoring his country. His respectful gesture seemed refreshing in a climate where sometimes less respectful displays occur.

Before the game, guidance from Yago’s Air Force mentor reminded him to dedicated his performance to service members. Yago also aimed to represent colleagues from the Air Force, Space Force, and the military. His actions resonated online, providing an iconic image — a salute from a Space Force officer during the anthem and just before the biggest game in his college career.

Despite Notre Dame’s loss to Princeton, 16-9, with Princeton winning their first national championship since 2001, Yago left a lasting image for lacrosse fans: a salute, on Memorial Day, from a Space Force officer. Truly an impactful moment.