On July 4, 1930, Henry Steinbrenner II and Rita Haley welcomed into the world a baby boy named George Steinbrenner. A man of the Air Force and football coach, Steinbrenner would rise to prominence in 1973 when he would become the principal owner of the New York Yankees purchasing the team for a mere $10 million. This value has been reviewed and the actual amount would be $8.8 million. Nonetheless, this wouldn't detract from the powerful force and presence Mr. Steinbrenner would be for the Yankees.
The first policy implemented upon his arrival would be the now famous "no-facial-hair-below-the-chin" policy. It was this exact and precise move that would prove to be an indication that Mr. Steinbrenner was about his business. While Mr. Steinbrenner solidified his being with this policy, he also made headlines with his tumultuous relationship with Yankee manager Billy Martin. Steinbrenner fired Martin 5 times and rehired Martin 5 times. Although Billy Martin has long since passed, I am sure that Mr. Steinbrenner continues to hold a spot in his heart for Billy since day one.
Being the business man he is, it is no surprise that George has invested in many lucrative projects. From race horses to Tropicana Field in Florida as well as foundations and scholarships, Mr. Steinbrenner's heart and love for success is what has been just a few reasons why he's been generously blessed. Likewise, it has been George's ability to poke fun at himself in the media that has also led to his longevity. Appearing on SNL, in Miller Light commercials, Visa commercials mocking his rant against Derek Jeter's excessive partying, and allowing The Simpsons to parody his mannerisms are a few examples of how Mr. Steinbrenner is truly one of a kind.
So, what is there to say about the man whose leadership has earned the Yankees 11 pennants and 7 World Series titles? The answer is something as simple as "Thank You". Thanks for being as bold and brass as you are because without it, where would the Yankees be? Thank you for making the tough decisions that others didn't want to make for fear of being hated. Thank you for dedicating your life and often times your family and health for the sake of your team and its fans.
And finally I close this piece by saying HAPPY BIRTHDAY GEORGE MICHAEL STEINBRENNER III
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY EVERYONE!!!
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