A support group has been launched for the thousands of police officers who were maimed and wounded during the Troubles.
It aims to ensure the memory of officers who died after years of battling agonising injuries is not buried in history.
The burden on families caring for terror victims will also be lifted by bringing them together to share experiences.
Ex-RUC m
an Frank Toner, who helped form the Wounded Police and Families’ Association, said it was time to give them all “a voice”.
“For years, the victims of terrorism have been slowly buried in a forgotten chapter of history,” he said.
“It is time that those victims had a voice and are recognised as defenders of the community who made significant sacrifices for the sake of lasting peace in the Province at the level which we are now experiencing.
“Many of our colleagues died after years of bravely fighting pain and injury and their courage must be recognised along with those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
He added that carers who have effectively sacrificed their own lives by helping their loved ones through pain also need recognition.
Officers with first-hand understanding of the trauma, pain and upheaval caused by injury in the line of duty will be on-hand for counselling.
Mr Toner said: “Members in this new group are in a unique position to provide that missing element of full and complete understanding of police victims of terrorism.”
Anyone who wants information on the group should call 075 96 469 997 or write to: The Secretary, Wounded Police and Families’ Association, c/o The Royal British Legion, 3-5 Court Square, Newtownards, BT23 7NZ.
