Look at this young man in the picture. He was only 18 years old when this was taken at a train station in Mobile, Alabama, back in 1952. With just $1.50 in his pocket and a bag by his foot holding two changes of clothes (and, if his mama was like most Southern moms, probably some sandwiches too), he was headed to Indiana to start a new chapter.
This young man was about to play baseball for the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro Leagues. He had a gift, and it didn’t take long for people to notice. A couple of years later, he signed with the Milwaukee Brewers, playing with them before joining the Braves, where he made history. He eventually became the last Negro League player to join a major league roster.
Fast forward, and he’s still a powerful presence in the baseball world as the senior vice president of the Atlanta Braves. His iconic number, 44, still stands at the old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, where he broke Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record, holding that title for 33 years.
Here’s to remembering “Hammerin’ Hank” Aaron, who passed away on January 22, 2021. A legend on and off the field, he showed us all what courage and talent could achieve. 
Credit to the original author for this heartfelt tribute.
