Veterans' representatives heap praise on 'courage and humility' of old soldier who was believed to be Northern Ireland's oldest man
The Northern Ireland Veteran’s Commissioner and the Royal British Legion have hailed the contributions of a former soldier who was believed to have been the oldest man in the Province.
Commissioner David Johnstone said that while Norman Irwin and most of his WWII comrades have now passed, “their example never will”, while the Royal British Legion also issued a statement to the News Letter voicing sadness at his death.
Mr Irwin, from Coleraine, died on Wednesday, aged 107.
The announcement had been made online by grandson Chris Irwin, who said that the former sergeant had served “across North Africa and Italy with the Coleraine Battery, Royal Artillery and Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME)”.
He added that “to the world, he was a hero and a piece of history, but to us, he was simply Papa… his warmth, wit, and wisdom guided our family for generations – and always with a glass of Bushmills”.
Mr Irwin had been given the British Empire Medal in a ceremony last year.
Mr Johnstone told the News Letter: "It was with sadness I Iearned of the passing of Norman Irwin, a 107-year-old World War Two veteran – one of the last living links to a generation that gave so much for our freedom.
"I had the privilege of meeting Norman last year and given his age, was struck by his love for life and sense of humour.
"In his century of life he witnessed history few can imagine, served his country with courage and humility, and carried the values of duty and sacrifice into everything he did.
"His generation is fast passing from us, but their example never will.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as they mourn a life lived in the service of others – a life that will be remembered with honour and thanksgiving across Northern Ireland and beyond."
Meanwhile, the Royal British Legion said its members were “saddened to hear of the death”.
In a statement, it said: “Like so many who served during the Second World War, Norman was part of a generation defined by courage and duty.
"Their contribution, alongside millions of others, helped to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.
"It is important that we continue to remember the sacrifices made by veterans like Norman, so that their legacy lives on for future generations.
"Our thoughts are with Norman’s family at this difficult time.”
East Londonderry’s independent MLA Claire Sugden said that “Norman’s service to his country and his contribution to our local community will never be forgotten”.
Mr Irwin had lived at Killowen House in Coleraine, and died at The Cottage Care Home in the town.
A death notice for him described him as the “dearly loved husband of the late Margaret, much loved father of David, Elizabeth and the late Margaret and Joy; adored and much loved grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather”.
There are no funeral details at time of writing.