Brave fallen of Northern Ireland remembered as poppy appeal under way
Ulster’s brave fallen have been honoured with commemorative events marking the 110th anniversary of the Somme.
The first day of the battle continues to reverberate in Northern Ireland, the heavy casualties suffered by the 36th (Ulster) Division still remembered in cities, towns and villages across the province.
With the annual poppy appeal for veterans now under way, on Saturday night the Royal British Legion staged a festival of remembrance in Belfast’s Assembly Buildings.
The event featured the band, bugles, pipes and drums of the Royal Irish Regiment, with the British Legion’s Northern Ireland president, Col Neil Salisbury stating the festival wa “a wonderful opportunity to give our thanks to those who sacrifice so much for our country”.
He added: “We’re grateful to all who gathered to honour the memory of all those who serve and support those who choose to serve.”
Today a field of remembrance in honour of members of the armed forces who died in service was unveiled at Belfast City Hall.
The last post was played and a two-minute silence observed during a service at the official opening on Monday morning.
Tributes were also laid by VIPs attending the service, including deputy lord mayor Hedley Abernethy and the national vice-chairman of the British Legion, Paul Harris.
The field, featuring wooden crosses bearing poppies and an emblem linked to the Royal Irish Regiment, will be open daily until November 12. The legion has encouraged members of the public across Northern Ireland to visit it in the weeks leading up to Armistice Day.
Similar facilities are also in place at Westminster, Cardiff Castle and the British Legion National Remembrance Gardens in Staffordshire.
Bethany Ferris, the legion’s public affairs manager in Northern Ireland, said the fields allow people to take a moment to pause and pay tribute to the fallen.
“Remembrance is part of our nation’s culture and means so much to so many people,” she said.
“The Belfast field of remembrance allows people to take a moment to pause and pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
“Tributes are available at poppy stalls across Northern Ireland, and we’d welcome anyone who wishes to lay a tribute of any faith to visit and reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of those who gave so much for our country.”