With a seemingly mental pastor intent on stirring up unecessary tensions in the good old U S of A, Brighton fans had a special reason to pause and reflect on the events of September 11, 2001.
Life-long Seagulls supporter Robert Eaton was among those who tragically died in the Twin Towers.
A popular fan and regular poster on Brighton website North Stand Chat, Robert’s death was felt by all who knew him – and many who didn’t.
But, out of that tragedy, something positive was born.
The Robert Eaton Memorial Fund was formed – with fans of both Brighton and their arch rivals Crystal Palace joining together to do something worthwhile rather than punch lumps out of each other.
In the years since, the REMF has been named Sussex Charity of the Year, raised tens of thousands of pounds for junior football clubs and, most importantly, kept Robert’s name alive.
An annual game between the two sets of fans has been expanded to include golf days, quiz nights, a summer five-a-side tournament and a host of other fundraisers.
And with rumours that next year’s match could be one of the first games at the brand-spanking new Falmer doing the rounds, the REMF looks likely to continue to go from strength to strength.
Brighton regular Gareth Glover and his team have done an excellent job running the charity and the REMF has become one of the best things connected to the Albion.
The nine years since the attack have flown by but the affection for Robert has not dimmed.
Robert Eaton, rest in peace.
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