Kalas Memorial Service--First Viewing in a Ballpark Since Ruth

[ngineer]

The Phillies will open CBP on Saturday at 8 a.m. to allow the fans to pay respects to Harry Kalas. His casket will be set just behind home plate. Admission will be first come, first served. Memorial service will begin at 1:30 p.m. According the report I read, this is only the second time in baseball history a viewing is being held in a MLB ballpark--Babe Ruth's funeral in 1947 (?) being the other.

Not sure how many other fans sent in this suggestion, but I did via email on Tuesday and in the Phillies Press Release today the note that for the balance of the season whenever a Phillie hits a HR, Kalas' signature call, "...and that ball is outa here!" will be played over the PA system in conjunction with the Liberty Bell lighting up in centerfield.xthumbsupx

[ISUMatt]

This is false...Jack Buck was at home plate in Busch Stadium

[93henfan]

Harry the K. Wish I could be there on Saturday to pay respects. Unfortunately, I have to attend a family function in North Carolina. xoopsx

Saturday will be a nice ceremony. The weather forecast looks terrific. Parking is free. All in attendance receive an 8x10 photo, a commemorative program, and a copy of a poem Harry penned in honor of the fan.

[bluehenbillk]

This is false...Jack Buck was at home plate in Busch Stadium

Correct...Ruth & Buck are the only 2 confirmed ceremonies where there actually was a casket on the field. Kalas will be the 3rd.

[ngineer]

So be it. Just reporting what I heard on the radio.xpeacex

[bluehenbillk]

I heard Buck had 10,000 people, Kalas will dwarf that, wonder how many Ruth had?

[ISUMatt]

I heard Buck had 50,000

[gmoney55]

I heard Buck had 50,000

That's what I thought as well.

[bluehenbillk]

I heard Buck had 50,000

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/stories/2002-06-20-buck-tribute.htm

10,077, I was off by the 77.

http://www.travel-watch.com/baberuthsfinalappearance.htm

Ruth is reported to have 200K, over 2 days.