FAMOUS MARINES: V

Bill Veeck

(Feb 09, 1914 - Jan 02. 1986)

Baseball Team Owner

Baseball Hall of Famer

Author

While a half-owner of the Brewers, Veeck served for nearly three years in the Marines during World War II in an artillery unit. Injuries he suffered after a recoiling artillery piece crushed his leg eventually led to the amputation of his foot, and later, the rest of his leg.

According to Veeck's memoirs, in 1942, before entering the military, he acquired backing to purchase the Philadelphia Phillies, planning to stock the club with stars from the Negro Leagues. He revealed his plans to Commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis, who "vetoed" the idea by arranging for another owner to buy the team. Although this story has long been part of accepted baseball lore, in recent years, its accuracy has been challenged by researchers.