World War Two hero William presented with Silver poppy on 100th birthday

William Boyce was presented with the recognition award by Councillor Peter Johnston at Burleigh Hill Care Home in Carrickfergus.

It marks his service with the RAF during WW2.

The Mayor said: “It is my honour to present this special Silver Poppy to Mr Boyce and as I do so, I also remember all of those from our Borough and beyond who were lost in the War, and who are no longer here with us.

“In our current climate I think we identify more than ever with the generation who lived through the Second World War and perhaps have a little more understanding of just some of the hardships which they endured.

“I’m sure William’s family are tremendously proud of him and I’m delighted to be here not only to mark his 100th birthday, which is a very auspicious occasion, but also to present him with this hand-crafted Silver Poppy of Remembrance.”

He added: “We are extremely proud of our strong military links here in Mid and East Antrim and therefore look forward to the opportunity to present surviving veterans with a silver poppy for service to their country during the Second World War.”

In July 2019, Veterans Champion, Alderman John Carson, proposed the council should recognise the contributions of those who fought in WW2 with the 75th anniversary taking place.

Council subsequently agreed to realign the presentation of silver poppies with Council’s VE Day commemoration and celebration event in May 2020.

Unfortunately the planned presentation was postponed due to the onset of the COVID19 pandemic, whereby the vast majority of silver poppy recipients were required to shield.

The other nominated recipients will receive their silver poppies over the coming days ahead of Remembrance Sunday.