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SATURDAY was an emotional rollercoaster for many of the crowd present at Ricoh Rugby Park for the inaugural Diggers Day.
The event, a tribute to all serving and ex-serving defence personnel, was also designed to promote the RSL in the community.
“Although there were solemn moments, the afternoon would have given everyone some wonderful memories,” Shoals Rugby Club member Paul Dean said.
The day started with five Red Berets parachuting into the rugby grounds, followed by an Iroquois helicopter carrying special guest, Mr Keith Payne VC and the match football.
“The broad smile of young Luke Meehan clutching the ball tightly as he gingerly walked beneath the whirling rotor blades, warmed the heart of many an old rugby warrior,” Mr Dean said.
Luke’s father and co-ordinator of the day, Rick Meehan walked with Mr Payne to the edge of the field, while he was introduced to the crowd.
Four flag bearers led the two sides, Shoals and Vikings onto the field where players met Mr Payne.
A bugler played The Last Post, followed by Let’s Not Forget.
“It was a fitting tribute to all who lost their lives in conflicts down the ages which left hardly a dry eye in the house,” Mr Dean said.
Luke Meehan kicked off the ball for the game and 80 minutes of no-holds-barred rugby followed.
Diggers Day will be held each year from now and will peak in 2015 for the centenary anniversary of the beginnings of the Anzac tradition.