Memorial Day 2010 – Remembering Eddie Grant
May 30, 2010 by Edward Kasputis
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Edward Leslie Grant (May 21, 1883 – October 5, 1918) was one of three (3) Major League Baseball players killed during the Great War. Grant played third base for the Cleveland Naps (1905), Philadelphia Phillies (1907 – 1910), Cincinnati Reds (1911 – 1913) and the New York Giants (1913 – 1915). Grant usually batted lead off.
Grant’s nickname was “Harvard Eddie.” Grant graduated from Harvard in 1905 and practiced law after his baseball retirement.
This Patriot was one of the first men to enlist when the United States entered World War I in April 1917. Grant served as Captain of the 77th Infantry Division.
During the battle of Meuse-Argonne Offensive, all of Grant’s superiors were killed or wounded. Grant took command of his troops on a four day search for the “Lost Battalion.” During the search, an exploding shell killed Grant on October 5, 1918. This Patriot is buried at the Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery in Lorraine, France.
This Patriot died at the age of 35. “Harvard Eddie’s” ultimate sacrifice has allowed his fellow countrymen to live free for another 92 years.
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Frank Ceresi on Mon, 31st May 2010 10:59 AM
I really enjoyed the Eddie Grant feature. Today~~~Memorial Day~~~is the time for us to tell any vet “Thank you for your service to the country” and for us to honor those who died during their service.
For those interested in great stories of other baseball players who made their mark in the National Pastime and in their service to your country, check out wartime stories by Bob Feller, Ted Williams, Warren Spahn (Battle of Bulge), Cecil Travis, Jerry Coleman, Lou Brissie and my favorite Hank Gowdy (WW One and Two).
Frank Ceresi
CNA Certification on Sat, 12th Jun 2010 11:16 PM
Keep posting stuff like this i really like it
Frances Waalkes on Mon, 26th May 2014 11:11 PM
I’m blessed to say that this man is my great great uncle. I’ve enjoyed learning about his amazing life, he’s a true hero.