Steinbrenner's legacy includes help for Bay area law enforcement

TAMPA - Joe Voskerichian saw first hand how competitive George Steinbrenner was.

"We used to play tennis at Mr. Steinbrenner's house on Sunday's. He didn't like to lose. But when he lost, he lost gracefully," said Voskerichian.
Joe says Steinbrenner was passionate about much more than just sports.

In 1980, the Yankees owner read about the death of a Tampa Police Detective and two Tampa fire fighters and wanted to do something.

"He was immediately drawn to what's happening with the family's education," said Voskerichian.

That was the beginning of the Gold Shield Foundation. Since then, the non-profit organization paid for 13 children of fallen officers to get college degrees. Three more are in school and 20 others are eligible. Joe says Steinbrenner's vision made it all possible.

"We'll miss him. We'll miss him," he said fighting back tears.

At TPD Headquarters you don't have to look far to see the Boss' contributions.
One of the squad cars he bought the department is parked out front.

"Law enforcement looks at George Steinbrenner as part of our family. He has supported us in countless ways. And in ways that really will be felt for generations to come," said Chief Jane Castor.

Joe and his wife lived out every Yankee fans dream, hanging with managers Lou Pinella and Joe Torre. But it's spending time with George and helping others that has meant the most.

"He was great for the game. He was great for our community. We were just fortunate to have him and his family a part of Tampa. That's all I can really say."

Even with George Steinbrenner's passing, his legacy will continue, obviously in baseball, but also in the law enforcement community. The Gold Shield Foundation will go on with one of his daughters on the board of directors.