Willie Mays, the legendary Hall of Famer known as the „Say Hey Kid,“ was honored at a memorial service in San Francisco for his remarkable contributions to baseball. Mays, who passed away at the age of 93, received final military honors for his service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. The special presentation included the folding of an American flag, which was then handed to his son Michael, and the traditional sounding of taps.
The memorial service was attended by numerous baseball dignitaries, both past and present. Among the guests were Mays‘ godson and home run king Barry Bonds, former President Bill Clinton, Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred, and Hall of Famers such as Dennis Eckersley, Rickey Henderson, Reggie Jackson, and Juan Marichal. The presence of these respected individuals highlighted the impact that Mays had on the sport and those who played it.
During the service, speakers reflected on Mays‘ influence on the city of San Francisco and the world of baseball as a whole. Former President Clinton shared his childhood memories of listening to baseball games on the radio and the joy he felt watching Mays play. Commissioner Manfred praised Mays for transforming San Francisco into a true baseball town, a legacy that continues to this day.
Willie Mays was remembered not only for his incredible skill on the field but also for the joy and passion he brought to the game. Commissioner Manfred spoke of Mays as a pioneer who captured the imaginations of players and fans alike. Mays‘ meticulous preparation and dedication to the sport served as an inspiration to generations of baseball enthusiasts.
The memorial service, which drew approximately 4,500 people, provided an opportunity for fans, friends, and former teammates to pay their respects to a true baseball legend. The presence of so many notable figures in the world of baseball served as a testament to the impact that Willie Mays had on the sport and the lives of those who knew him. As the sun set over the waterfront ballpark, the memory of the „Say Hey Kid“ lived on in the hearts of all who were in attendance.
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