Marine Corps Sports Program Celebrates Black History Month

In celebration of Black History Month, here’s a quick look at just a few of the most decorated black athletes to have earned the eagle, globe, and anchor.

Dusty Baker, Professional Baseball Manager for the Houston Astros

Dusty Baker is an exceptional baseball player and manager. As a player, Baker was twice selected for the All-Star team, twice awarded the Silver Slugger, and was a key member of the 1981 World Series Champion Los Angeles Dodgers. As a manager, Baker is a three-time manager of the year. He served in the Marine reserves from 1969 to 1975 and was inducted into the Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame in 2017.

Jo Jo White, Hall of Fame Basketball Player

Jo Jo White is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, inducted in 2015. White’s accolades include 2 NBA championships, an Olympic gold medal (1968), 7 selections to the NBA All-Star Team, and 2 selections to the All-NBA Second Team. After college, White served in the Marines before joining the NBA’s Boston Celtics. White was inducted into the Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.

Lloyd Keaser, Wrestler and Olympic Medalist

Lloyd “Butch” Keaser was a wrestler who earned the Silver Medal in the 1976 Montreal Olympics, becoming the first African American to medal in the sport. A two-time All-American for the United States Naval Academy, Keaser also won a gold medal at the 1973 World Championships and 1973 World Cup. Keaser was a Marine officer for five years and was inducted into the Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame in 2005.

The All-Marine Sports Program and the Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame salute these Marines for their contributions to the Corps and to their sport. Visit the All-Marine Sports website for upcoming events and current sports.