Remembering the Busby babes we tragically lost in the Munich Air Disaster

It was a day that changed football forever. On February 6th, 1958, the world lost a team destined for greatness.

The Munich Air Disaster claimed the lives of 23 people, including eight of Manchester United’s legendary Busby Babes, a squad filled with youth, talent, and boundless promise. These were men who lived and breathed football, who inspired hope in fans, and who had dreams yet to be realised.

Among them were players, coaches, and club staff, each with their own unique stories—of dedication, resilience, and love for the game.

This tragedy was not just a loss for Manchester United but for the footballing world.

It was a devastating moment in history that left a deep scar on the sport and in the hearts of all who knew and loved these men. But though their lives were cut tragically short, their legacies endure.

The Busby Babes were the embodiment of the spirit of Manchester United, and their memory lives on in every chant sung at Old Trafford, in every young player who dreams of wearing the red shirt, and in the hearts of those who will never forget.

Here, we remember those who perished—honouring their lives, their careers and the mark they left on Manchester United, football and beyond.

The Busby Babes

Geoff Bent

A talented full-back, Bent spent his career in the shadow of United captain Roger Byrne but remained devoted to the club. A strong and aggressive tackler, he made only twelve first-team appearances but was highly regarded by his teammates and coaching staff. On the fateful trip, he was a last-minute addition, replacing an injured Byrne.

Bent had twice broken his leg during his career but showed great determination in his recoveries. Off the field, he was a devoted husband and father, supplementing his income by working as a joiner. Known for his loyalty and sense of humour, Bent had a playful relationship with his neighbours, even waking them with a prank on the morning of his final journey.

Roger Byrne

The leader of the ‘Busby Babes,’ Roger Byrne was a formidable left-back who had already won three league titles with United. Known for his leadership and vision, Byrne was also one of the first in the squad to own a car, though his driving was famously erratic. At the time of his death, his wife was expecting their first child, a fact Byrne tragically never learned. He had already begun making plans for life after football, enrolling in a physiotherapy course at Salford Royal Hospital, where he met his wife, Joy.

Eddie Colman

A crowd favourite, Colman was known for his dazzling dribbling and signature swaying style, which earned him the nickname ‘Snake Hips.’ A skilled and creative midfielder, he played an integral role in United’s first three FA Youth Cup victories. Despite his close proximity to Old Trafford, Colman was often late to training, a joke among teammates and trainers. Away from football, he loved music and nightlife, embracing the ‘teddy boy’ fashion with velvet-collared jackets and a quiff. He was a social leader within the squad, often organising team outings.

Duncan Edwards

Widely regarded as one of the most talented footballers of his generation, Duncan Edwards was a dominant force in midfield. Making his England debut at just 18, he played over 100 matches in a single season across club, country, and national service.

Edwards survived the crash but succumbed to his injuries fifteen days later, a tragic loss for football. He had been engaged to his fiancée Molly, who was by his side in the hospital. Edwards was hugely popular with fans, regularly appearing on football magazine covers, and once famously fined for cycling home without lights after a match.

Mark Jones

A strong and commanding centre-half, Jones was known for his leadership and aerial prowess. Off the pitch, he had a passion for animals, raising pigeons and budgies. He once missed a training session because his budgie was unwell.

A protective and stabilising presence in the dressing room, he was seen as an older brother to many younger players. His fiancée, June, rushed to watch his debut after receiving a telegram, and the couple had planned a future together.

David Pegg

An exciting winger, Pegg was renowned for his speed and dribbling ability. A regular for England, he was seen as a key player for United’s future. His sense of humour made him a beloved member of the squad, often seen alongside close friend Tommy Taylor.

On the night before the disaster, he and Taylor sang a Yorkshire folk song to celebrate United’s victory. Pegg had a mischievous streak and was known for playing practical jokes, once earning a punch from his younger sister for pushing the joke too far.

Tommy Taylor

A prolific goal scorer, Taylor was United’s star striker, netting 131 goals in 191 appearances. His heading ability was unparalleled, and he was considered one of the best forwards of his time. Despite interest from clubs like Inter Milan, Matt Busby refused to sell him. Known for his friendly demeanour, he was a crucial part of United’s attacking force.

Taylor started his career as a coal miner before being signed by Barnsley and later Manchester United. His unassuming nature made him reluctant to believe he was First Division material, despite his incredible talent.

Liam Whelan

A highly skilled forward from Ireland, Whelan was a prolific scorer, netting 52 goals in 98 matches. Despite his talent, he remained humble, regularly sending money home to his mother. A devout Catholic, Whelan was deeply rooted in his faith and was planning to marry his fiancée Ruby in June 1958.

He was known for his pinpoint passing and incredible stamina, famously nutmegging Duncan Edwards in an international match as part of a friendly wager. His funeral procession in Dublin drew an estimated 20,000 people, bringing the city to a standstill.

The Staff

Walter Crickmer

Having dedicated nearly 40 years to Manchester United, club secretary Walter Crickmer was a driving force behind the club’s development. His administrative genius helped keep the club afloat during tough times, and he played a key role in creating United’s world renowned youth policy.

Tom Curry

A former Newcastle United player, Curry was United’s trainer for over two decades. Known for his tough but fair approach, he was a mentor to many young players. He played a significant role in the club’s FA Cup victory in 1948 and served as a trainer for the Great Britain Olympic team.

Bert Whalley

A former United player turned coach, Whalley was instrumental in developing young talent at Old Trafford. His nurturing approach balanced the fiery nature of assistant manager Jimmy Murphy, making him a beloved figure at the club. When Matt Busby was unable to travel with the squad, Whalley took charge of the team on the fateful trip.

The Munich Air Disaster

The Munich Air Disaster was a tragic moment in football history, claiming the lives of some of the sport’s brightest talents. While their lives were cut short, their legacy continues to live on, shaping the spirit of Manchester United.

The club rose from the ashes of the disaster, inspired by the memory of those lost, ensuring that their contributions to the game will never be forgotten.

Their names are etched in history, not just for what they achieved on the pitch, but for the characters, friendships, and dedication they brought to football. They will always be remembered as the Busby Babes.

You can find out more about the Busby Babes by clicking here

How to support the Manchester Munich Memorial Foundation

You can support the Manchester Munich Memorial Foundation by clicking here

The group organises and leads the annual Munich Air Disaster memorial service that takes place in Germany on 6th February each year, and also raises money for disadvantaged young people in Belgrade, Manchester and Munich.