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February 4, 2016Legendary starting pitcher Bob Feller means many things to the Cleveland Indians. Not only was his illustrious 18-year career enough to earn a Hall of Fame nod in 1962, he still holds club records for wins, starts, innings, strikeouts, and complete games.
Now, the team is hoping to add “Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient” to the right-hander’s list of accolades.
On Wednesday, the Indians launched a campaign and online petition to have the late Feller recognized by the White House with the prestigious award. Bestowed by the President, it is the highest civilian award in the United States, given “for especially meritorious contribution to 1) the security or national interests of the United States, or 2) world peace, or 3) cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.”
The team’s petition, filed on WhiteHouse.gov, needs 100,000 signatures by March 4 to require a response from the White House. If selected, Feller would join Yogi Berra and Willie Mays, who received the award last year from President Barack Obama. Other Hall of Famers to receive the Medal of Freedom include Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks, Roberto Clemente, Joe DiMiaggio, Stan Musial, Buck O’Neil, Frank Robinson and Jackie Robinson.
“In addition to the incredible and lasting impact Bob made on the Indians organization, we think his meritorious contribution to the security and national interests of the United States makes him worthy of consideration for the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” said Indians Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Bob DiBiasio.
Feller, who pitched all 18 years of his career with the Indians, was the first baseball player to enlist in the U.S. Navy after the bombings of Pearl Harbor, doing so in the absolute prime of his career. While he could have asked for a deferment due to his father’s terminal cancer, Feller chose to serve his country.
During his time in the Navy, the Iowa native served aboard the USS Alabama, earning the rank of Chief Petty Officer and participating in the Battle of the Philippine Sea. He was decorated with six campaign ribbons and eight battle stars. After Feller returned from the Navy in 1945, he won 118 games over the next six seasons, and helped lead the Indians to the 1948 World Series title.
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At a quick glance, this is what I saw:
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