This past week the unique and lovable Yogi Berra, born Lawrence Peter Berra, passed away at the age of 90. He was a professional baseball catcher, manager, and coach who played 19 seasons in the Major leagues.
Inducted in to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972, he was one of the greatest Major League Baseball players of all times.
He was born to Italian immigrants in St. Louis, Missouri and dropped out of school after the eighth grade. He began to play ball in the local American Legion teams where he learned the basics of baseball. At the end of his career, Berra had played in more world series than any other major leaguer and was a three-time American League Most Valuable Player.
His nickname, Yogi, was given to him by a teammate who said Berra looked like a Hindu yogi when he sat…legs and arms crossed.
For many, he was even better known for his “Yogi-isms”… amusing sayings that have become a part of American culture such as…”It ain’t over `til it’s over”
At age 18, Berra put his baseball career on hold and served in the US Navy during WWII. He was a gunner’s mate on board a rocket-launching landing craft in the D-Day invasion at Omaha Beach. He also served in North Africa and Italy. He was sent home after suffering a hand injury and was then stationed at the New London Sub Base until his discharge.
Yogi Berra’s life was remarkable. As an American, I thank him for his military service and his years playing America’s favorite past time.