Jack Fleming
The
late Leo W. "Jack" Fleming will forever be known as the "Voice of the
Mountaineers."
Serving as WVU's play-by-play announcer in football and basketball from
1947-59, 1962-69 and 1974-96, Fleming became a legend to generations of
listeners for his vivid descriptions and enthusiasm for the Mountaineers.
Also the broadcaster for the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers and the NBA's
Chicago Bulls during his distinguished career, he broadcast four Super
Bowls and the NBA All-Star Game; his most famous call was in 1972, on
Franco Harris' "Immaculate Reception."
Seven times the West Virginia sportscaster of the year, he received the
1996 Gene Morehouse Award from the West Virginia Sports Writers
Association. In 1999, he received the Chris Schenkel Award from the
College Football Hall of Fame.
In 1995, he was inducted into WVU's Order of Vandalia, for outstanding
service to the state and University.
A U.S. Air Force navigator during WWII, he flew 23 combat missions and
began his radio career while recuperating at Ashford Military Hospital
(the Greenbrier). A native of Morgantown, W.Va., he died in January, 2001.