Emlen "the Gremlin" Tunnell, a safety noted for his incredible ability to intercept passes and his electrifying, turning & twisting punt returns, was the first African American player elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, after having been the first African American player on the New York Football Giants. Presented is a circa 1940s original News Service Type I proof photograph used for Tunnell's 1948-52 W468 Exhibit image. Tunnell played in 1942 for Toledo University, breaking his neck, and because of the injury, the U.S. Military rejected his bids to serve during World War II. Eventually, Tunnell was permitted to enlist in the U.S. Coast Guard. While Tunnell was serving in the Pacific during World War II, a shipmate caught on fire after a Japanese torpedo hit Tunnell's Coast Guard cutter. Tunnell used his bare hands to smother the flames on his shipmate, saving his life, and suffering burns on his own hands. Then, after the war, Tunnell dove into 32-degree water to rescue another shipmate. Emlen's heroism earned posthumous recognition in 2021 when the Coast Guard named a ship after him. Back in '48, after more football at the University of Iowa, Tunnell hitchhiked from his home near Philadelphia to try out in New York City for the Giants. He made the team, and played from 1948-59 with the Giants, followed by three years with Green Bay. A 9-time Pro Bowler, at his retirement he held NFL career records (since superseded) for interceptions (79), interception return yardage (1,282 yards), and punt return yards (2,209). He was a 2-time NFL Champion. The offered photo measures 8.1x9.9". It has a few small spots, and some slight darkening, with some penciled editing marks. The photo is in overall very good condition. There is a facsimile Tunnell signature. The back shows editing instructions and "Emlen Tunnell," all written in blue pencil by an unknown hand. The back also has a stamped "29772" and an "International News Photo" stamp. The photo has been encapsulated and PSA Certified as "TYPE I AUTHENTIC." The vintage photo makes a great remembrance for an under-appreciated hero, both on-and-off the field.

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