[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 153 (Wednesday, October 21, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2596]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           BROOKS C. ROBINSON

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. C. A. DUTCH RUPPERSBERGER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 21, 2009

  Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor 
Brooks C. Robinson, legendary Baltimore Orioles third baseman and 
National Baseball Hall of Famer.
  Brooks Robinson began his professional baseball career on Memorial 
Day 1955, when he signed a contract with the Baltimore Orioles for whom 
he played throughout his entire 23 year career. Known as the Human 
Vacuum Cleaner because of his astounding defensive abilities at third 
base, Robinson is generally acclaimed as the greatest defensive third 
baseman of all time.
  In 1964, Robinson won both the American League Most Valuable Player, 
MVP, and All-Star Game MVP awards. He played in four World Series and 
in 1970 Robinson received the World Series MVP Award. In 1971, Robinson 
was awarded the Hickock Belt, emblematic of his selection as the 
national outstanding athlete of the year. During his career as an 
Oriole, Robinson won 16 consecutive Gold Glove Awards, a record for 
nonpitchers.
  Besides his superior defensive skills, Robinson holds major league 
records for his offensive talent as well. Robinson compiled a .267 
batting average with 2,848 hits, 268 home runs, and 1,357 runs batted 
in. After his retirement in 1977, the Orioles retired his jersey, 
number 5.
  Robinson remained active in the community upon his retirement. A 
longtime supporter of Scouting, Robinson served for many years on the 
executive board of the Baltimore Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, 
and is a recipient of the Silver Beaver Award. On December 5, 2006, he 
was recognized for his accomplishments on and off of the field when he 
received the Bobby Bragan Youth Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award.
  Brooks Robinson has lived in the Baltimore area for over 45 years 
with his wife Connie. They have four children and eight grandchildren.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today in honoring Brooks 
Robinson, a man who has established a standard of excellence both on 
and off the baseball field. His stellar baseball performance and 
outstanding community involvement is a sterling example of a true 
professional athlete.

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