The Boxing Writers Association of America announced former three-time World Champion, Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero, as the recipient of their Bill Crawford award. “Robert Guerrero had put his career on hold to deal with his wife Casey’s health issues. With her Leukemia in remission, Guerrero made a successful return to the ring. How he coped with the situation impressed the BWAA electorate who voted him the Bill Crawford award winner for “Courage in Overcoming Adversity.” ~ BWAA
The Story of Bill Crawford: Crawford learned to defend himself by boxing in his home town of Pueblo, Colorado. As a soldier during World War II his fighting skills were put to the ultimate test. As the company scout, Army Private Crawford discovered three hidden German machine gun nests. Alone and unable to alert his fellow soldiers of the awaiting ambush — with only his rifle and grenades Crawford single handedly destroyed all three enemy emplacements. As his company advanced, he volunteered to stay behind and aid a wounded soldier only to be captured by enemy troops and endured nineteen months in a Nazi prison camp. His youthful golden gloves experience resurfaced when he took on a Nazi guard in a fist fight, – Crawford knocked the Nazi out cold. Forty years after his heroic action Crawford was presented the Medal of Honor in person by President Ronald Reagan at the 1985 Air Force Academy graduation. Crawford died in 2000 and was buried at the United States Air Force Academy.
“Words can’t describe how grateful I am that Casey’s cancer is in full remission,” said Guerrero. “I thank God every day for all the prayers I received from people around the world, especially the boxing community. I’m truthfully grateful to be announced the Bill Crawford award winner by the BWAA. Winning this award is an honor and strengthens my faith in Jesus Christ as it grows stronger everyday.”
“Robert Guerrero’s strength and determination are inspiring to all of us here at Golden Boy Promotions and we are proud to see that the BWAA has recognized this as well,” said Richard Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions. “Robert and his wife Casey are living proof that extreme adversity can make ordinary people do extraordinary things and persevere through the toughest of times. This award is a great tribute to the spirit of the Guerrero’s.”
Casey Guerrero is approaching the one year anniversary of her bone marrow transplantation on January 26, 2011. A documentary chronicling the triumphant story of Robert Guerrero and his wife Casey is in production. Clips can be seen by visiting www.robertguerrero.com.
All award winners will be honored at the BWAA’s 86’s annual dinner tentatively set for May 6, 2011 in Las Vegas. For more information on the Boxing Writers Association of America visit www.bwaa.org.
