Honoring the Past: Signarama Rivercities Creates Display Pedestal for Young Thundering Herd Playbook

At Signarama Rivercities, we are humbled to contribute to preserving the legacy of Marshall University football and the memory of the 75 lives lost in the November 14, 1970 plane crash—the darkest day in Marshall history. Recently, our team designed and built a custom display pedestal to hold the 1970 playbook donated by Red Dawson, assistant coach of the Young Thundering Herd. This historic playbook now rests in a protective acrylic case, symbolizing resilience, remembrance, and the unbreakable spirit of the Marshall family. What makes this pedestal truly meaningful is the tribute it carries. The names of all 75 players, coaches, staff, and supporters who perished that day are beautifully illuminated on the front, ensuring their memory continues to shine. It now stands proudly in the office of Head Football Coach Tony Gibson, serving as both a piece of history and a source of inspiration for today’s Herd. For us at Signarama Rivercities, this project went beyond signage—it was an honor to help create a lasting memorial that bridges the past with the present, reminding us all of the strength found in community, perseverance, and legacy. We are proud to stand with Marshall University in remembering and honoring those who will never be forgotten.