Module 3: Roberto Clemente Article by Ozzie Gonzalez

Born in a small barrio, San Anton in Carolina, Puerto Rico, Roberto Clemente was the youngest of seven children and was raised in a modest home with mother Luisa and father Melchor.

When it came to selecting a "Player of the 60's" Clemente was obviously overlooked and the award went easily to Sandy Koufax of the Los Angeles Dodgers as Clemente only received a handful of ballots.

The Baseball's Writer Association of America immediately waived the customary five-year wait and voted Roberto Clemente into the National Baseball Hall of Fame on August 8, 1973 — making him the first Latino to be inducted.

At the ceremony in 1973, Commissioner Bowie Kuhn honored him by creating the "Roberto Clemente Award", the highest award in baseball for sportsmanship and community activism.

Kuhn spoke proudly about Clemente, "He was so very great a man, as a leader and humanitarian, so very great an inspiration to the young and to all in baseball, especially to the proud people of his homeland, Puerto Rico."

Kuhn spoke proudly about Clemente, "He was so very great a man, as a leader and humanitarian, so very great an inspiration to the young and to all in baseball, especially to the proud people of his homeland, Puerto Rico."

"I can think of no better tribute to the memory of Roberto Clemente and the pride that he brought to Pittsburgh than renaming the Sixth Street Bridge, the Roberto Clemente Bridge," said Commissioner Cranmer.

"'The Great One exemplified Pirate baseball at its finest. PNC Park and Roberto Clemente Bridge will serve as a constant reminder to all generations that Clemente and Pirate baseball will forever be an important part of Pittsburgh."

On days when the Pirates play home games at PNC Park, Clemente Bridge will serve as a pedestrian walkway and fans will be able enter the new Pirates ballpark directly from the bridge. A great tribute for one of this country's most cherished and prestigious athlete.

"He will be remembered as a great baseball player and humanitarian. To honor his legacy, we have designated this special day to not only remember Roberto, but to honor those players who have contributed so much to their communities."