For the second year running, Adelaide United FC will host a special Remembrance Day clash, including a pre match ceremony and tribute to recognise the day of world significance.
For the second year running, Adelaide United FC will host a special Remembrance Day clash, including a pre match ceremony and tribute to recognise the day of world significance.
The 11th of November each year is a momentous date on the calendar around the world as it marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War One, which lasted from 1914-1918.
Traditionally on this day each year Australians observe one minute’s silence at 11am on the 11th of November in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts.
While many will acknowledge this honoured tradition, Adelaide United in conjunction with the RSL-SA will acknowledge it further with a Ceremony of Remembrance prior to the Reds- match against Perth Glory on Sunday.
The ceremony will involve the formal aspects of Remembrance Day – the reading of the Ode of Remembrance by Colonel Steve Larkins, Deputy State President RSL SA, bugle renditions of the Last Post and Rouse, as well as a moment of silence.
Adelaide United defender Daniel Bowles- grandfather fought for his country on board HMAS Hobart in World War 2, and the talented Reds youngster is proud to have the chance to play on a day that acknowledges all of those who have fought in war.
“It-s a special day for a lot of people and it-s going to be a great honour to play on the day,” Bowles said.
“A lot of people have sacrificed a lot for their country and Remembrance Day is a great day that we can look back and pay tribute to all of those soldiers.”
Furthermore, at the conclusion of the game, the RSL in association with Adelaide United FC will award the Tomas Dale Medal to a selected player for outstanding sportsmanship.
Private Tomas Dale was killed in action in Afghanistan in August 2010 at the tender age of 21 while part of the 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment. His parents, Karen and David Dale, gave permission for the medal to be named in Tomas- honour and will present the medal at the end of the game. Iain Ramsay was the first recipient of the Tomas Dale Medal when the Reds defeated Gold Coast United on Remembrance Day last year.
“The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month attained a special significance in the post-war years,” Mrs Sam Jackman, CEO of RSL SA, said.
“The moment when hostilities ceased on the Western Front has become universally associated with the remembrance of those who died in wars. Today more than ever, with our soldiers making the supreme sacrifice in Afghanistan, we must pause to remember and honour them all.”
Adelaide United FC and the RSL are pleased the Remembrance Day match has become a recognised fixture on the FFA calendar, and the club is hopeful it can continue to be an annual tradition to host a home game on the day or a date that falls closest to Remembrance Day.
By including reflection and recognition of Remembrance Day before kick-off on Sunday, it is anticipated that it will be a touching and telling reminder of what the day signifies and bring to attention a day that holds special significance for people around the globe.
Tickets for the match are available through Ticketek. Kick-Off is at 4.30pm ACDT and patrons are encouraged to arrive early for the ceremony.
