Forty years ago today, Kansas City Chiefs RB Joe Delaney made the ultimate sacrifice in an attempt to save three children from drowning in his home state of Louisiana.
A rising star in the Chiefs’ organization, Delaney had a bright future ahead of him after a dominant rookie season with 234 carries for 1,121 yards and three rushing scores. He earned AFC Rookie of the Year honors and a trip to the Pro Bowl, contributing to what was the first winning season for Kansas City in nearly a decade.
Following the 1982 NFL season, the 24-year-old Delaney returned back to his hometown of Haughton, Louisiana for the offseason. On June 29th, 1983, Delaney would travel to Monroe, Louisiana where his selflessness would help save a life, but also cost him his own.
Delaney came upon three children screaming for help in a man-made pond in Chenault Park. Delaney couldn’t swim well himself, but he still rushed to action. He dove into the pond in an attempt to save the three children. He was able to rescue one child, another child was taken to an emergency room where they later perished.
Delaney and a third child would not survive the incident.
Every year on this day, fans throughout the Chiefs Kingdom take some time to remember Delaney’s heroism and selflessness. He didn’t know the children he sought to rescue, but he knew they were in trouble and that he couldn’t stand by without making an attempt to help.
Over the years, Delaney’s legacy has been honored by those in Kansas City and his home state of Louisiana. Most recently, an extension of the Joe Delaney Learn to Swim Program funded by GEHA and the Hunt Family Foundation.
Two years ago a monument was erected in Delaney’s honor at Chenault Park. Those who visit the park will learn of his story and his sacrifice, as the inscription on the monument reads:
Greater love has no man than to lay down his life for another.
Joe Delaney died on June 29, 1983 while attempting to rescue three children from drowning. He was posthumously awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal from U.S. President Ronald W. Reagan. He made the ultimate sacrifice by placing the lives of three children above the regard for his own safety. By the supreme example of courage and compassion, this brilliantly gifted young man left a spiritual legacy for all fellow Americans.
