Remembrance Sunday is a day for the nation to remember and honour those who have given so much to secure and protect our freedom

This year the event is particularly poignant as it marks 100 years since the day World War One ended, at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month, in 1918. This weekend, across the county, those involved in the game will mark the occasion and pay tribute to the efforts of servicemen and women, past and present.

With so many players and supporters lost, football has always had a special place in remembering the sacrifice of those involved in conflict. The stories of widespread, unofficial ceasefires across the Western Front in 1914 have been retold through generations, and remain one of the most poignant examples of humanity overcoming the most harrowing of circumstances.

More than 100 years on, football still plays a pivotal in healing divides, building bridges between communities and bringing people together in the joy of the game.

United in Commemoration

At fixtures this weekend teams will wear poppies in their shirts and join together before their games to honour the fallen through the observance of a minutes silence.

As with previous years, we would ask that those taking part in these activities share pictures with us through social media using the hashtag #FootballRemembers so that the whole football community in Hertfordshire can unite in its commemoration.

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Special Commemorative Match between Oxhey Jets and The RAF

As part of events to mark Rememberance Day, Hertfordshire FA are proud to once again attend a special commemorative match organised by Oxhey Jets FC. 

Last year the club organised a commemorative match for a former player, Tom Lake, who tragically died whilst on active service in Afghanistan.

All proceeds from that game against a team from his Princess of Wales' Royal Regiment 'The Tigers' went to the British Legion, continuing the Jets tradition of supporting this cause. The occasion was without doubt an emotional one, serving as a moving tribute to the memory of Tom and all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

This year the Club have been asked to officially organise a match against an RAF team to commemorate both the RAF's 100 years and 100 years since the end of World War One.

Paul Mallett, Director of Hertfordshire FA said: "It is fitting that the club's efforts have been recognised on a national level and it is my honour to again lay a wreath on behalf of the Hertfordshire Football Association prior to this match."

For more information on this game and the history of the oppponents Icarus FC, there's an excellent interview on BBC Three Counties Radio, you can hear it from from around 47 minutes in.