Bert Trautmann. Former Hitler Youth devotee & Nazi paratrooper (bear with me...). Won 2 Iron Crosses. Captured by the British and after serving his time as a POW became a goalkeeper for Man City. Broke his neck after a spectacular save but continued playing until the final whistle - assuring City's victory in the cup final.
A remarkable story, even with the Nazi connection. Still alive today - 88 & living in Spain.
Bert Trautmann was indeed brave or should that be bloody stupid? Still no Health & Safety in those days, no risk assessments, no incident reports - just get up and get on with it - stiff upper lip and all that.
Met Bert Trautman many Years ago along with his wife as they had a Caravan at St. David's Caravan Park, Red Wharf Bay, Anglesey. Nice down to earth people
Despite his Germanic origins and youthful indiscretion (!!), he does sound a really nice chap. One of the things he said in interview was "I wanted to show the British that there are some good Germans knocking about....".