The Fremantle Football Club is saddened by the passing of WWII veteran Arthur Leggett on Sunday, at 106 years of age.
As a beacon of bravery and courage, Arthur leaves behind a lasting legacy and his memory will remain close to the heart of the Club.
Dedicating his life to serving and protecting his country, Arthur fought in Libya and the battles of Bardia and Tobruk.
After being captured in the Battle of Crete, Arthur spent over four years as a prisoner of war in Germany, working 12 hour shifts on a coal mine in Poland.
Post retirement, Arthur remained an advocate for Australian veterans and was an active president of the Ex-Prisoner of War Association of Western Australia.
Held on or near Anzac Day each year, Fremantle’s Len Hall Tribute Game holds significant meaning for the Club and is dedicated to honouring the service and sacrifices of war veterans and fallen soldiers.
Fremantle was honoured to have Arthur’s involvement in the annual match over a number of years, as he touched the hearts of all Club personnel, Fremantle fans and the broader community.
In an extremely special evening in 2022, Arthur recited the Ode of Remembrance, which he said at the time was all about representing fallen soldiers.
“I always feel that it’s not about me, I’m representing all the fellas that didn’t come home. In that moment, that’s who I’m representing. Therefore, I owe it to them to carry myself with as much dignity as I can muster,” Leggett said ahead of the match.
This year’s Len Hall Tribute Game will take place on Anzac Day, with Fremantle hosting the Adelaide Crows at Optus Stadium at 6.10pm WST.
Arthur was once again set to be part of the proceedings, but following the news of his passing, Fremantle will now work closely with his family to honour his life and legacy.
Arriving 30 mins before bounce to give Arthur Leggett a standing ovation 🥹 #foreverfreo pic.twitter.com/8q8tTQXJH2
— Fremantle Dockers (@freodockers) April 23, 2022