Al Bumbry played all but one year of his career with the Baltimore Orioles, but before he even got to the majors he had accomplished more than most of us. His minor league service was interuppted by a tour of duty in Vietnam. He was a platoon leader during 1969 and 1970, and was awarded the Bronze Star which is given for "heroic or meritorious achievement or service". Al Bumbry was drafted by the Orioles in the 11th round of the 1968 draft and then served in Vietnam in 1969 and '70 before returning to the minors. He made his major league debut on September 5, 1972, and in 1973 was named the American League Rookie of the Year. He was an All Star in 1980 and won a World Series with the Orioles in 1983. He signed as a free agent with the Orioles in 1978 and played for them through 1984, and they released him and he signed as a free agent with the Padres for the 1985 season. He played in 68 games, getting 95 at bats, 19 hits and hitting 1 HR. He played his final game October 5, 1985. I believe I got the card signed through the mail.
3 comments:
I think that I remember seeing his name on the wall at Petco. I was kind of surprised how many Vietnam vets were on there. You never hear about those guys. You only hear about the ones from WWII.
What kind of card is that?
That is a 1985 Mothers Cookies card
Great post, and enjoy your blog. Bumbry was indeed a hero if for no other reason than his service in defense of others. As a fellow vet, I can appreciate that.
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