A piece of history has landed at Melton RSL after the family of an ex-service member found a football trophy given to his father during his service in Vietnam.
Cliff Evans was stationed at Vung Tau during the Vietnam War, where he served as a flight sergeant in the Australian armed forces.
Early in his service Mr Evans made a mistake while on duty and was told he could receive a regulation punishment for his misdeed, or start a football competition for he and his fellow soldiers to enjoy.
He chose the latter.
In 1967 Mr Evans helped to create the Vietnam Football League, which persists to this day, only instead of service members the league is now open to expats and Vietnamese alike.
That same year Mr Evans, now deceased, was awarded a trophy for his participation in the first premiership.
This year that trophy was found by Mr Evan’s children, Matt and Tonya, who were cleaning out the home of their mother, Heather, who recently died.
Melton RSL president Stephen Cook said he was humbled by the family’s decision to hand possession of the trophy over to the RSL.
“It’s lovely, it’s going to take pride of place,” he said.
“The Evans family moved to Melton 52 years ago and both Cliff and Heather were heavily involved in ex-service organisations.
“She sold badges, went to all of the events. She was the most amazing woman and so family oriented.
“For her family to give us this trophy, it’s such a blessing.”
Oliver Lees
