On June 29, 2024, we commemorate the 41st anniversary of the tragic yet heroic passing of Joe Delaney, a former running back for the Kansas City Chiefs. Delaney’s football career began in college, where he played for Northwestern State University of Louisiana. In four seasons, he managed to accumulate an impressive 3,047 yards rushing and 31 rushing touchdowns, catching the attention of NFL scouts. Consequently, the Chiefs selected him with the 41st pick in the second round of the 1981 NFL draft, catapulting him into stardom.
Delaney had an impressive rookie season, carrying the ball 234 times for 1,121 yards and scoring three rushing touchdowns. As a result of his outstanding performance, he was named the AFC Rookie of the Year and earned a trip to the Pro Bowl. His contributions were instrumental in leading Kansas City to their first winning season in almost a decade. This marked a significant turning point for the organization, which had been struggling to regain its footing after initial success in the NFL. Former Chiefs S Lloyd Burruss praised Delaney’s fearless attitude, noting that despite his small stature at 5-foot-9 and 180 pounds, he ran the ball right into linemen weighing 250-280 pounds without hesitation, doing so week in and week out.
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In the prime of his life, Delaney had a promising future ahead of him. Tragically, his life was cut short due to an act of bravery that is still remembered to this day. After the 1982 NFL season, the 24-year-old returned to his hometown of Haughton, Louisiana to spend the offseason. On June 29th, 1983, Delaney visited Chenault Park in Monroe, Louisiana to hang out with some friends. While strolling through the park, he heard the cries of three distressed children who had gotten stuck in a shallow, man-made pond. Despite the fact that he couldn’t swim, Delaney didn’t hesitate to jump to their rescue.
In a heroic effort, Delaney plunged into the pond to save three children. Although he successfully rescued one child, another had to be rushed to the emergency room where they tragically passed away. Unfortunately, Delaney himself, along with a third victim, did not survive the incident.
Remembering Chiefs RB Joe Delaney’s selfless act
On this day every year, I make it a point to honor Delaney’s bravery and generosity. Despite being unfamiliar with the children he saved, he was fully aware of the danger they were facing. Delaney refused to be a mere bystander and put himself in harm’s way to extend a helping hand. This act of selflessness is truly inspiring and deserves to be remembered by fans of the Kansas City Chiefs and the NFL as a whole.
Throughout time, people in both Kansas City and Louisiana have celebrated and remembered Delaney’s contributions. Last year, on Delaney’s birthday (Oct. 30), Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas officially declared it as “Joe Delaney Day” in the city. In addition, a monument was recently constructed at Chenault Park in Monroe, Louisiana, to pay tribute to Delaney. The monument’s inscription tells the story of his life and the ultimate sacrifice he made. Visitors to the park can learn about his inspiring journey and legacy.
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.
The Joe Delaney Learn to Swim Program, currently funded by GEHA and the Hunt Family Foundation, stands as a remarkable tribute to his legacy. Even four decades after his passing, Delaney continues to impact and save lives through this program. If a similar initiative had been available in Delaney’s hometown during his childhood, he may still be with us today. Today, kids from his hometown and all across the nation are mastering the art of swimming, all thanks to Delaney and those who honor his life and legacy.