Letter: Trump mightn't recognise Northern Ireland, but Dwight D Eisenhower knew the importance of this place during World War Two
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After Donald Trump said a united Ireland would be a “great thing”, some suggested he was backtracking during a speech at the US ambassador’s residence in the Republic, only the following day at his Doonbeg golf course he said he “loved” the reaction to his comments on unification.
So much for the special relationship when you seek to break up the UK, your ally.
Between 1942 and 1945, 300,000 American troops were stationed in Northern Ireland.
Supreme Commander, later President Eisenhower, wrote the following to Prime Minister Terence O’Neill, his friend, in 1967:
"It is a privilege to send greetings to you as Belfast marks the 25th anniversary of the first arrival in your state of American troops in World War Two. I want to assure you and the gallant people you lead of the appreciation of every American who was privileged to enjoy the hospitality of Northern Ireland during that conflict. All of us remember that experience with gratitude and affection. With best wishes and high esteem, Dwight D Eisenhower.”
No problem there recognising Northern Ireland.
The UK government’s weak response to Donald Trump, hiding behind the Good Friday Agreement, says it all. It's not legislation gathering dust at Westminster that keeps Northern Ireland as part of the UK, it's the unionist people's determination and presence, boots on the ground, and commitment to a cause.
Ian Fawley, Southport