Munich Air Disaster Memorial Stamp

1 February 2008

Liam was one member of a United team, affectionately known as the ‘Busby Babes’, who’s youth and skills on the pitch earned them an enviable reputation. Now, fifty years later they are iconic figures of a fondly remembered era in the history of the beautiful game.

On 6 February 1958, 23 people including eight Manchester United footballers died in an air crash returning from Belgrade. Manchester United had just beaten Red Star Belgrade in the quarter finals of the European Cup (5-4 on aggregate) and had stopped off in Munich airport for refuelling.

The British European Airways plane crashed on it’s third attempt to take off and among the 23 people who perished were eight United players; Liam Whelan, Roger Byrne, Mark Jones, Duncan Edwards, Eddie Colman, Tommy Taylor, David Pegg and Geoff Bent.  Among the other passengers who died were club officials, journalists, supporters, a cabin steward and the co-pilot.

In tribute, An Post is issuing a 55c stamp featuring a photograph of Liam Whelan in his players’ jersey, pictured next to the iconic image of the Munich Memorial Clock at Old Trafford.  The stamp is designed by RMG Target and is available at the Philatelic Shop, GPO (01-7058400), selected post offices nationwide or from www.irishstamps.ie. (new window)

Liam Whelan was born in Dublin on 1 April, 1935 and he began his football career playing for Home Farm.  He was soon spotted by Manchester United and in May 1953, at the age of 18, he moved to the famous club.  After a couple of seasons he began to command a regular place on the first team, playing as inside forward for United. 

Whelan became a hugely successful player as the team went on to win the League Championships in 1955-56 and 1956-57. The Irish born Busby Babe was the top goal scorer in 1956-57 with an incredible 26 goals from 39 appearances in one season. In total he scored 52 goals from 96 appearances during his career with Manchester United.

Liam Whelan died aged 22, the loss to his family and to his team mates was acknowledged by the 20,000 mourners who attended his funeral in Glasnevin Cemetery, Dublin. The Munich Air Disaster brought human tragedy, grief and loss to the families of the 23 people who died on 06th February 1968 and an abiding loss to the sport of football.

ENDS
For more information:
Aileen Mooney, Corporate Communications, An Post.
01- 7057447
www.anpost.ie