On April 25, 1976, the Chicago Cubs' outfielder, Rick Monday, became a national hero when he rescued the American flag from two protesters who were attempting to burn it in the outfield of Dodger Stadium. The incident occurred during a game between the Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
During the bottom of the 4th inning, two protesters, William Thomas and his 11-year-old son, ran onto the field, placed the flag on the ground, and tried to set it on fire using lighter fluid. Monday, who was playing center field for the Cubs, noticed the commotion and quickly sprinted towards the protesters. He snatched the flag away just as Thomas was about to ignite it, and continued running with the flag until he reached the dugout, where he handed it to a teammate.
The crowd of 25,167 fans erupted in cheers and chanted "USA! USA!" as Monday ran off the field with the rescued flag. The incident was captured on live television and became a symbol of patriotism during the United States' bicentennial year.
Monday's act of bravery earned him widespread praise and admiration from fans, fellow players, and politicians alike. He received a standing ovation from the crowd when he came to bat in the next inning, and after the game, he was awarded the flag he had rescued as a gesture of gratitude.
The flag Rick Monday saved from being burned is now on display at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, serving as a reminder of his heroic deed and the importance of respecting the American flag. Monday's quick thinking and patriotic act on April 25, 1976, will always be remembered as a significant moment in both baseball and American history.
