The Commanding Officer, Chris Smith tosses the coin prior to the match

Following the match between the Vietnam Swans and HMAS DARWIN on 29 September 2009, the ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander C.E. Smith CSM, RAN has written to the Vietnam Swans National President, Phil Johns, in a letter dated 2 October 2009, thanking the Vietnam Swans for our hospitality.

The letter is reproduced below:

Dear Phil

I am writing to thank you for the game of Australian Rules Football and the tremendous hospitality extended by the Vietnam Swans to HMAS DARWIN. During a deployment, sports provide a positive outlet for ship’s company and a way to engage the local community during port visits.

The letter from the Commanding Officer of the HMAS DARWIN, Chris Smith

Australian Rules Football encourages hard work, team work and courage which are the same virtues that the Royal Australian Navy seeks to develop in its sailors. This match contributed to the upholding of those qualities.

I wish you and all the members of the Swans the utmost of success for the future and I look forward to spreading the word back in Australia about how gracious a host the Swans are.

Yours aye

Chris

C.E. Smith
Commander, RAN
Commanding Officer
HMAS DARWIN

[Commander C.E. Smith then adds, in handwriting…]

Thanks again for the great hospitality and all the best to you and the team.

“Go the Swannies!”