Louis, Dempsey, Tunney, Norton, St., Marciano, and Spinks. Let’s honor them on this Memorial Day.
Original caption: 6/5/38- Pompton Lakes, NJ – Just take a look at these two mighty “pile drivers” which Heavyweight Champion Joe Louis exhibits in this unusual closeup at his training camp, here. Louis is getting in trim to defend his title against Max Schmeling of Germany at the Yankee Stadium, June 22nd. Former Champion James J. Braddock, whom Louis defeated for the title, visited the “Bomber” at his camp, today, and placed his stamp of approval on the title-holder. June 5, 1938, Pompton Lakes, New Jersey, USA
Stepping inside a boxing ring requires courage. But six former heavyweight boxing champions took courage to another level. They traded gloves for military uniforms, stepping up to defend our country.
Joe Louis worked to make it easier for African-Americans to secure spots in officer candidate schools. The United States Army awarded Louis with the Legion Of Merit Medal.
Jack Dempsey was a member of the National Guard and the Coast Guard Reserve. With others in the crew of the USS Arthur Middleton, Dempsey participated in the Okinawa invasion in World War II.
Gene Tunney, nicknamed “The Fighting Marine,” was chosen as Ring Magazine’s first Fighter of the Year.
Ken Norton Sr., another Marine, defeated Muhammad Ali to become the heavyweight champ in 1973. He is widely acclaimed as the best boxer to ever represent the Marines.
Rocky Marciano, who’s recognized as the inspiration for the “Rocky” films, is the only heavyweight champion to retire undefeated. He entered the United States Army in 1943.
Leon Spinks, like Norton, also defeated Ali. The year was 1978. Spinks won the title in only his eighth professional fight–the quickest in history by number of bouts. He also was a Marine.
Although Muhammad Ali is not on my list, no one should ever doubt his courage. He stood for his religious beliefs and disagreement with the Vietnam War.
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