Remembering Atlanta Braves legend“Hammerin” Hank Aaron

Today Atlanta mourn the death of one of the greatest baseball players of all time, who was best known for breaking down racial barriers, and shattering the long-standing career record of Babe Ruth with his 755 career home runs. He was a 25-time All-Star, World Series champion, and a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame.

After his retirement from the MLB, he held front office roles with the Atlanta Braves, including senior vice president. Aaron was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982. In 2001 he was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal by President Bill Clinton. The following year in 2002 he was awarded the Presidential Metal of Freedom Award by President George W. Bush.

Hank Aaron receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush. RIP. pic.twitter.com/lKalQQ3bpU

— CSPAN (@cspan) January 22, 2021

In a statement, the Atlanta Braves Chairman Terry McGuirk said, “We are absolutely devastated by the passing of our beloved Hank,”. “He was a beacon for our organization first as a player, then with player development, and always with our community efforts. His incredible talent and resolve helped him achieve the highest accomplishments, yet he never lost his humble nature. Henry Louis Aaron wasn’t just our icon, but one across Major League Baseball, and around the world.

It is with great sadness we share the passing of our home run king, Hank Aaron. pic.twitter.com/ZdRuhqIaet

— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) January 22, 2021

Aaron, 86, passed away today. He is survived by his wife Billye Suber Williams and five children.