MSNBC host Chris Hayes has apologized after comments he made about calling U.S. soldiers “Heroes” drew sharp criticism. The backstory: on his program “Up,” Hayes said he was “uncomfortable” calling soldiers “heroes” because the term can be used to justify potentially unpopular or improper actions by others in the government.

Not surprisingly, the comments were roundly criticized from a wide variety of groups outlets. Today, Memorial Day, he issued an apology, according to The Huffington Post

On Sunday, in discussing the uses of the word “hero” to describe those members of the armed forces who have given their lives, I don’t think I lived up to the standards of rigor, respect and empathy for those affected by the issues we discuss that I’ve set for myself. I am deeply sorry for that. :

You can read the entire statement at HuffPost.