It’s a painful week for Yankees fans. Just days after the passing of “The Voice of Yankee Stadium,” Bob Sheppard, we learned this morning of the death of “The Boss,” George Steinbrenner III. He was nothing if not single-minded, causing some rocky times between him and his many managers and also with the fans, but in the end we have to admit that he built an amazing empire based on standards higher than any other in baseball. We may not always have felt warm and fuzzy about him, but we respected his due diligence. The many times we drove our highways with “World Champs” flags flying, and brooms across the back windowsills of our cars were thanks to Mr. Steinbrenner’s work ethic, and my lovely collection of World Champs tee shirts were thanks to his rules. We had no idea what a handsome face was lurking beneath all that hair on Johnny of Nazareth until he appeared clean-cut and clean-shaven the day Johnny Damon signed with the Yanks.
So now, on the day of the All-Star Game, we must cope with his passing. It will be sad. There will be a moment of silence for Mr. Steinbrenner. Derek Jeter’s at bat will be announced by a recording of Bob Sheppard’s voice, as he always is at Yankee Stadium.
The former Senator from New York and current Secretary of State Clinton knew Mr. Steinbrenner initially as First Lady. She and Former President Clinton released this statement today.
Joint Statement by President Bill Clinton and Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton on the Passing of George Steinbrenner
The passing of George Steinbrenner marks the end of an era. Baseball has lost a giant, New York has lost a champion, and we have lost a friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Steinbrenner family today and with all the friends, colleagues, and fans who loved The Boss.
George was a fierce competitor who was the perfect fit for the city that never sleeps – colorful, dynamic and always reaching for the stars. His Yankees brought home seven World Series championships and provided inspiration and entertainment to people in New York and around the world. He was a generous friend and supporter of the community. And after the terrorist attacks of 9/11, when New York needed it most, George and the Yankees helped lift our battered spirits. He was born on the Fourth of July and loved his country even more than his team.
We were delighted to host George and the team at the White House in 1999 to celebrate one of their many World Series victories, and privileged to call him our friend. The man behind the myth was generous, loyal and always passionate. On that day at the White House, as we walked out on the South Lawn together and the band struck up “Hail to the Chief,” Bill playfully reminded George, “Don’t get any ideas, it’s not for you.” But George always had his own song. They say that if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere, and nobody knew that as well as George Steinbrenner. He will be sorely missed.
Source: clintonfoundation.org
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