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Baseball Legend, Bobby Thomson, and the Raritan River Region CLC....

Started by Pat Caruso CLC #17825, September 04, 2010, 10:23:44 PM

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Pat Caruso CLC #17825

The Raritan River Region has the great fortune of participating in the Watchung NJ Little League Parade.  This annual rite of spring is held on opening day of baseball season and features the local police, fire department, rescue squad and assorted antique Cadillacs.  For many years, baseball legend - and Watchung resident - Bobby Thomson would lead the parade as Grand Marshall.  After throwing out the ceremonial first pitch, Mr. Thomson would autograph all the baseballs, jerseys, and hats the kids would bring him.  His easy manner and love of the game endeared him to all.....

The tribute, below, was written by Raritan River Region Past-Director, Bernie Cooney

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He was never a Raritan River Region member, but he honored us with his presence for several Watchung Little League kick-off parades. That, in itself, speaks volumes of the man. Without a doubt the "Shot Heard Around the World" in 1951 put the definitive accent on an illustrious major league baseball career. Thomson's acclaimed New York Giants took on their arch rivals, the Brooklyn Dodgers in a tie-breaking pennant race. After splitting the first two games things started to heat up between the teams. Thomson's three run homer ended all doubts about the outcome of that pennant race.

Thomson's involvement with the RRR came decades later. Joe Puleo, very active in his local community, was asked to participate in the Watchung Little League Parade. It was only natural that Joe would invite his Cadillac buddies to give the parade a little pizazz. These events featured the normal cadre of local dignitaries, but also featured a very dedicated human being. With him it was all about children and their involvement with sports. We all learned a lesson in sportsmanship during those years.

Thomson's medical condition eventually dictated him moving to Savannah Georgia, where he passed away on August 16, 2010.

The Raritan River Region thanks Robert Brown Thomson for the chance to share a small facet of his life. We have benefited from his experience and wisdom. Our condolences to his family.

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Pictures of Bobby Thomson, including his parade ride in the back of an RRR 1911 Cadillac Model 30.
Webmaster - Raritan River Region CLC   http://www.rrrclc.org
Webmaster - Valley Forge Region CLC   http://www.vfrclc.org

1975 Cadillac Sedan deVille