Glen Cove Boxing Hero Says He Will ‘Clobber Cancer’

Davis, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer earlier this year, said his foundation will provide education and financial support for those suffering from cancer and will encourage alternative methods for fighting this disease.

Mayor Reggie Spinello presented Davis with a City of Glen Cove flag and awarded him and his wife Karla with a special citation for their charitable work.

“In the 1976 Olympics you were wrapped in the flag of our country and that represented the gratitude of our great nation for your remarkable victory,” Spinello said. “Today it is our turn as a community to support your battle against cancer and wrap you with a reminder that we never forget our own and you are always in our thoughts and prayers.”

Davis thanked his hometown for all the support over the years. “I may call Florida home now, but Glen Cove will always have my heart and will always be my hometown,” he said.

During his visit to Glen Cove, Davis went back to his old neighborhood on Mason Drive, where an honorary street sign was dedicated in tribute to Davis and his father, Howard Davis Sr.

He shared hugs with old acquaintances, met with his former trainers and sparring partners and talked about preparing for the Olympics by running up and down all of the hills in Glen Cove.

“Howard was very happy to be back at the Glen Cove Housing Authority where he grew up,” said Eric Wingate, executive director of the Glen Cove Housing Authority.

For more information about Howard’s foundation, visit HowardDavisJrFoundation.org.

Image via City of Glen Cove