Jackson Advocate

New York, Jan. 10—Jackie Robinson, whose unexpected decision to quit baseball has stirred up a controversy, today hotly defended himself against the charge made by many sports writers that he was "unappreciative" of what the game has done for him.

"Nothing is further from the truth", the ex-Dodger star declared.

"Baseball has been awfully good to me", he said, adding that he is particularly grateful for the opportunities it has given him to work for his race.

In the copyrighted article in the current issue of Look Magazine which announces his decision, Jackie writes: "Because of baseball, I was able to speak out on behalf of Negro Americans before the House Un-American Activities Committee and rebuke Paul Robeson for saying most of us Negroes would not fight for our country in a war against Russia."

"Today, I'm happier than I've ever been," Robinson continues in his Look article.

"On March 4, I will go to work for the Chock Full O'Nuts restaurant chain as vice-president in charge of personnel.

"I'll be able to spend more time with my family too," the retired star said.

"My kids and I will get to know each other better. Jackie and Sharon and David will have a real father they can play with and talk to in the evening and every weekend. They won't have to look for him on TV."

Robinson Is Grateful To Baseball For Enabling Him To Work For His Race