President Barack Obama released a written statement on Friday eulogizing baseball legend Hank Aaron, who passed away at 86.
“Hank Aaron was one of the best baseball players we’ve ever seen and one of the strongest people I’ve ever met.
Whenever Michelle and I spent time with Hank and his wife Billye, we were struck by their kindness, generosity and grace — and were reminded that we stood on the shoulders of a previous generation of trailblazers.
…Today, Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to the Aaron family and everyone who was inspired. this unassuming man and his towering example.”
You can read Obama's full statement below (via NBC News' Kelly O'Donnell), which recognizes Aaron's accomplishments amidst racist threats and his lifelong pattern of setting leadership examples, including receiving COVID-19 vaccines last month.
Statement from @BarackObama on Henry Aaron. pic.twitter.com/so32FBUfl6
— Kelly O'Donnell (@KellyO) January 22, 2021
Aaron was one of the 20th century's most dignified and enduring athletes. Over 23 seasons—primarily for the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves—Hammerin' Hank slugged 755 home runs and made 21 consecutive All-Star teams (1955-75). He is still MLB's all-time leader in total bases and runs batted in.
One of the great all-around players in baseball history, Aaron also won three Gold Gloves and racked up 240 career stolen bases (in this regard, Aaron is actually underrated). He earned his lone MVP award in 1957.
His 715th home run on April 8th, 1974 remains perhaps the most iconic moment in baseball history:
Obama's predecessor, President George W. Bush, awarded Aaron with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002.
In 2009, the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown opened a permanent exhibit on Aaron's remarkable life and career.
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