Uli Hoeneß: 'Example of moral courage'

Whether it was a riot at a petrol station in Königsdorf, an attack on a taxi driver in Essenbach or an attack on a pregnant woman in Marktredwitz, Münchberg near Hof, courageous people were once again honoured for their outstanding acts of civil courage before Bayern's match against Freiburg at the Allianz Arena. The occasion marked the 15th anniversary of the death of Dominik Brunner, who was murdered at Munich-Solln underground station on 12 September 2009 after he courageously intervened to protect young people from violent attackers. The Dominik Brunner Foundation honoured 13 people who have distinguished themselves through their committed actions in difficult situations. 

Uli Hoeneß, FC Bayern honorary president and chairman of the board of trustees of the Dominik Brunner Foundation, paid tribute: "These people did not look the other way when others were in need, but protected people in situations when they were particularly vulnerable through their decisive actions. Their exemplary acts are worthy of being heard about by as many people as possible. They deserve to be honoured at the Allianz Arena, and we hope that their example of moral courage will encourage us all to look out when others need help." Fifteen years ago, Hoeneß gave a memorable speech at a packed Allianz Arena on the subject of moral courage and bowed in memory of the late Dominik Brunner in front of over 70,000 fans. 

Stadium announcer Stephan Lehmann recited the stories of the courageous people on Sunday, focussing on the importance of moral courage and the need to take action instead of looking away. Those honoured come from different regions of Germany and received a certificate and the silver ‘Zusammenhalt macht stark’ ('solidarity makes us strong') pin for their exemplary behaviour.

Once again this year, FC Bayern will display its team line-up in sign language on the scoreboard in the Allianz Arena: