Lois Frankel: “Henry ``Hank'' Aaron is one of the great athletes to ever set foot on any field, renowned for breaking home run records…”

“Henry ``Hank'' Aaron is one of the great athletes to ever set foot on any field, renowned for breaking home run records and racial barriers. With grit and natural talent, he became the home run king of baseball while playing at a time of ugly segregation, having to sleep in separate hotel rooms from his teammates and facing countless threats on his life. On Saturday, a portrait of this extraordinary man I am proud to call my friend and neighbor will be unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery as friends and family join Hank and his wife, Billye, in celebration of his 80th birthday. Cheers to you, Hammerin' Hank. Thank you for a lifetime of courage and inspiration. ____________________”