Under Armour pulls and apologizes for controversial Iwo Jima shirt
Sports apparel company Under Armour has stopped selling a t-shirt that compares basketball players raising a hoop to the iconic photograph of servicemen raising the US flag at Iwo Jima during World War II.
Source: Twitter screenshot
The $24.99 shirt, called ‘Band of Ballers,’ received much criticism as many said it was offensive to the military.
The brand received a backlash on social media, with some calling the shirt ‘unacceptable’ and ‘disrespectful.’
However, supporters of the brand have praised Under Armour for quickly acknowledging its mistake while noting that it has a collection of clothing that supports the ‘Wounded Warrior Project,’ which benefits injured service members and their families.
Under Armour posted three tweets on 16 May (Saturday) to apologize for the shirt and announce that it will no longer be available for sale.
See the tweets below:
Under Armour has the utmost respect and admiration for active duty service men and women and veterans who have served our country. (1/3)
— Under Armour (@UnderArmour) May 16, 2015
We deeply regret and apologize the release of a shirt that is not reflective of our commitment to support & honor our country's heroes (2/3) — Under Armour (@UnderArmour) May 16, 2015
We have taken the necessary steps to remove this shirt, and any related shirts, from all retail and ensure this doesn't happen again. (3/3)
— Under Armour(@UnderArmour) May 16, 2015