Attack on Northern Ireland war memorial: given war in Ukraine, people should have more respect

Chairman of Dungannon/Moy Royal British Legion, David Cuddy, said: “At about 1am on Saturday morning all the wreaths were removed from Dungannon war memorial and scattered far and wide around Market Square.

“It was reported to the police who gathered up the wreaths again. Most of the 35 wreaths were ripped and damaged beyond repair.”

He said that the PSNI should be making an appeal for witnesses.

Mr Cuddy said: “Names on the war memorial come from both sections of the community who served in the two world wars. Wreaths are laid as a mark of respect for those who gave their lives, and to those killed and in conflicts since.

“It is an utter disgrace that the wreaths should be treated in this fashion.

Dungannon councillor Walter Cuddy, who is a cousin of David, said: “It was a particularly violent attack on the war memorial. The wreaths weren’t just lifted off and thrown around, they were torn to pieces.”

“We’re hoping that CCTV footage can identify who carried this out. I’d appeal to anyone to come forward with information to police, concillors, church leaders. Anything to help catch the culprit.”

The UUP councillor added: “It’s very hurtful, it does inflame tension.

“The cenotaph was looking really well. There’s people’s names from all community on it.

“With the war going on in Ukraine it’s important to respect the people who went to war and didn’t come back.”

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