Chciago Cubs outfielder Rick Monday snatches American Flag from two fans William Errol Thomas Jr. (from Eldon, Missouri) and his 11-year-old son who attempted to light it in the outfield at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles Apr 25, 1976 (photo from Getty file)
American Flag going to Cooperstown
That’s Amaury News and Commentary
By Amaury Pi-González
On April 25, 1976, during the US Bicentennial Year, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, Cubs outfielder Rick Monday rescued the American flag from a man who ran onto the field and tried to set it on fire. Monday was assisted by a Marine Corps reservist, ran over and snatched the flag, and sprinted away just as they attempted to light it.
The Dodgers beat the Cubs 5-4 in front of 25,167 in the friendly confines of Dodger Stadium. 50 Years later, that same flag will be exhibited at Cooperstown all summer long this year when the United States of America is celebrating its 250th Year of Independence, and will debut Memorial Day as part of the Hall of Fame Military Classic festivities.
What is Rick Monday doing today? As of 2026, former All-Star outfielder and 1981 World Series champion Rick Monday continues his long-standing tenure as a broadcaster for the Los Angeles Dodgers in his 31st season with the World Champion as play-by-play man on the radio. Monday was recently honored with the Bob Feller Award of Valor Patriot Award.
The Museum continuously adds to its collection, which includes historically significant items like a 1921-1922 Babe Ruth scrapbook and a 4,108-photo collection from Look Magazine. The Baseball Hall of Fame does not purchase artifacts but relies on donations to preserve baseball history.
Every baseball fan should visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum at Cooperstown, New York. It is a must, where you will find everything about the game and learn a great deal about its history. I visited a few years ago and plan to visit again soon.
One of the most impressive items I remember is the handwritten notes” from the exact moment that Jackie Robinson made his major league debut in 1947, there are also letters, and scouting reports, like the report by scouts on a young Roberto Clemente. For more information, visit the website https://baseballhall.org/
Quote: Cooperstown is the greatest place on Earth” –Bob Feller.
Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.
While in the Bay Area, great food and great prices. 998cuba.com
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