Here is the video of Billy Crystal's eulogy at Muhammad Ali's funeral, describing their association of over forty years:
To me, the section beginning here was especially meaningful, as it described their collaboration in funding a program called "Peace Through the Performing Arts" at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. As Crystal described it, the program is "a theater group, where Arab, Israeli, and Palestinian actors, writers, and directors all work together in peace creating original works of art." It was something Ali "loved the theory of," said Crystal, to great applause.
There are similar programs at nearly every Israeli university, and they are all being boycotted by the American Studies Association (and others) pursuant to the anti-normalization standard of the BDS movement.
So, a draft dodging un-patriotic American who earned good coin here for just some punching, gets a rousing hero worship send off. Contrast that to Elvis Presley a genuine hero….he served his Country and put himself at risk. Ali's funeral reminded me of Richard Nixon's funeral when everybody seemingly forgot what a scoundrel he was—especially Bob Dole through his uncontrollable crying.
Extraordinary speech. Who knew that they were friends and that Crystal's father was an activist. Thanks for posting.
Captain Hruska:
People are remembered for more than one event in their lives. I am sure you have heard:
To a Marine, honor is loyalty and dedication to God, Country, Corps, Family, and Self.
Ali's relationship with God should be considered in the mix. Or do you find that presumptuous?
That was over 40 years ago… The measure of this man should include his entire life IMHO.
Meh…