“If you have a chance to accomplish something that will make things better for people coming behind you, and you don’t do that, you are wasting your time on this Earth.”

He was an ambassador for goodwill. A role model for a generation. A professional philanthropist, who just happened to be one of the greatest ballplayers of all time. We’re talking about Roberto Clemente, whose influence is still felt half-a-century later.

After the 1958 season Clemente enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He spent six months at Parris Island, South Carolina, where he was a private first class, and he remained active until 1964. During those six seasons on the ball field? He made the All-Star team five times, won a World Series, took home several Gold Gloves, and won the batting title twice. Duty didn’t get in the way of his greatness; it helped define it.

As part of our “culture and influence” spotlight throughout February, we are throwing back to Roberto Clemente’s service to America with this “Parris Island” sweatshirt!

Officially licensed by Roberto Clemente.