Oohra Tug McGraw 

In August 1965, 20-year-old Tug McGraw had just pitched a complete game and defeated the legendary Sandy Koufax. A month later, after completing his rookie season and with war in Southeast Asia escalating, Tug, a U.S. Marine, reported to Parris Island.

He became a rifleman, adept at firing the M14 and M60. He later reported to Camp Lejeune, where he became, as he humorously said, “a trained killer.” 

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Tug served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves from 1965 to 1971 during the Vietnam era for 6 years as a reservist. He viewed his commitment as a fair exchange for the invaluable lessons they imparted, including elevating his pitching weight to 185 pounds. He credits his service with helping him learn self-control. 

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“They’ve taught me concentration and self-control,” he shared. “I used to jump around on the mound and wave my arms—it was pretty Little League-ish. Now, you have to approach it with a big-league attitude." 

Mission Continues

After the 1969 season, Tug McGraw traveled to Vietnam for a USO tour to visit troops, an experience that left a lasting impact on his life. Throughout the 1990s until his death in 2004, Tug continued to support the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces by organizing softball games at military bases in Asia, Europe, and across the United States. 

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Today, his legacy continues through the Tug McGraw Foundation, located at the Veterans Home of California in Yountville, an area where Tug grew up and played baseball. The foundation is committed to enhancing the quality of life for those affected by brain-related military trauma and glioblastoma brain tumors through education, resources, and brain wellness programs. 

Dolly The Therapy Canine

Throughout his baseball career, Tug's beloved dogs frequently captured the attention of journalists. Recognizing the positive impact of therapy dogs on the mental health and well-being for both civilians and military veterans has led increased recognition and support for the inclusion of dogs in comprehensive treatment plans. In 2019, The Tug McGraw Foundation introduced its first approved therapy dog, “Dolly,” who intriguingly shares a lineage with “Patriot,” the yellow Labrador Retriever owned by San Francisco Giants’ Mike Krukow. Dolly was placed with a veteran at the Yountville Veterans Home.  

In 2024, the Tug McGraw Foundation partnered with the Napa Valley Museum to showcase a moving exhibition: “Warrior Dogs: Honoring the Service and Sacrifice of America’s Four-Legged Fighters.” This exhibition paid tribute to American military and working dogs, highlighting the profound bond between these canines, their trainers, handlers, veterinarians, and fellow soldiers. It featured 16 life-sized wooden sculptures created by renowned artist James Mellick, including a tribute to Cairo, who served with the U.S. Navy SEAL Team 6 during the Bin Laden raid, alongside cutting-edge equipment provided by Special Forces and Storm.