American Rhetoric: Movie Speech

"Brian's Song" (1971)

 

Gale Sayers' Acceptance Address for the George S. Halas Award for Courage

Audio mp3 delivered by Billy Dee Williams

 

Sayers: I'd like to say a few words about a guy I know, a friend of mine. His name is Brian Piccolo, and he has the heart of a giant and that rare form of courage which allows him to kid himself and his opponent -- cancer.

He has a mental attitude which makes me proud to have a friend who spells out "courage," 24 hours a day, every day of his life.

Now you flatter me by giving me this award. But I say to you here and now, Brian Piccolo is the man of courage who should receive the George S. Halas Award.

It's mine tonight -- and Brian Piccolo's tomorrow.

I love Brian Piccolo.

And I'd like all of you to love him too.

And tonight, you hit your knees:

Please ask God to love him.


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