John “Buck” O’Neil

John “Buck” O’Neil born in Carabelle, Florida, was manager and first baseman for the Kansas City Monarchs from 1938-1955.  In 1942, his team won the Negro League World Series, O’Neil was hired by the Chicago Cubs in 1956 and in 1962 was named the first black coach in the major leagues.  He helped renew interest in the Negro Leagues, and played a major role in establishing the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City.  O’Neil died at the age of 94 on October 6, 2006.  He was posthumously honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

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