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June 04, 2006
A Moment In History
by Jack Lee....
Heralded as one of the greatest plays in the history of baseball ,it was on May 23rd, 1976 at Dodger Stadium. Even though the Vietnam War was over, some people didn't need a reason to protest; shown here are
two low-lifes that sneaked onto the field and prepared to burn Old glory. Then out of center field charged Rick Monday of the Chicago Cubs. The flag, dowsed with lighter fluid, was less than 6 inches from the burning match when Monday, coming in a full tilt, reached down and grabbed it as he ran past. He later said he seriously considered throwing a body block on the two, but opted for grabbing the flag, his first concern.
The two stunned and bewildered protestors were immediately arrested and escorted off the field as the crowd applauded the cops. Moments later the fans spontaneously began singing God Bless America. For the rest of the season Rick Monday got a standing ovation wherever he played, although he didn't really want the attention and said he only did what anyone else would have done, given the chance. 1976 was one of Monday's best seasons in his long career.
The flag was returned to Monday, where it is proudly on display at his home. Rick Monday, United States Marine veteran, Center Fielder for the Chicago Cubs and an all-American patriot.
Posted by Melody at June 4, 2006 08:24 PM