As sports fans, we often idolize our favorite athletes for their talent, charisma, and dedication to their craft. But what about those athletes who also serve their country with honor and bravery? One such athlete is Bill Moisan, a member of the Chicago Cubs who also served as a genuine baseball war hero.
Born on November 1, 1918, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Moisan was a talented baseball player from a young age. He signed with the Chicago Cubs in 1939 and quickly rose through the minor league ranks to make his Major League debut in 1942. However, his baseball career was put on hold when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943 during World War II.
Moisan served in the Army’s 44th Infantry Division, known as the “Fighting 44th,” and was deployed to the European Theater of Operations. His division saw heavy combat in France, Belgium, and Germany, including the Battle of the Bulge. Moisan was wounded in combat and received the Purple Heart for his injuries.
Despite the hardships of war, Moisan’s love for baseball never wavered. While stationed in Europe, he organized baseball games for his fellow soldiers, using improvised equipment and makeshift fields. His leadership and determination to bring a sense of normalcy and camaraderie to his comrades through baseball earned him the respect and admiration of his fellow soldiers.
After the war ended, Moisan returned to the Chicago Cubs and resumed his baseball career. He played as a catcher for the Cubs from 1946 to 1948 before retiring from professional baseball. Although his time in the Majors was relatively short, Moisan’s impact on those around him extended far beyond the baseball field.
Moisan’s story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless athletes who put their careers on hold to serve their country during times of war. His bravery, resilience, and dedication on and off the battlefield are a true testament to the spirit of a genuine baseball war hero.
In 2011, Bill Moisan passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of courage, integrity, and service to his country. His inspiring story serves as a reminder of the extraordinary individuals who have served both on the field of play and in the defense of freedom. Bill Moisan may have been a baseball player, but he will always be remembered as a true American hero.