Graves Commission ‘deeplysaddened’ by vandalism

The 'BRY' slogan that was scrawled on the back of the Commonwealth War Grave in the City Cemetery.

Last week the Sentinel reported how vandals had scrawled a ‘BRY’ slogan - an acronym used by some as shorthand for ‘Bogside Republican Youth’ - on the back the headstone.

Jeroen Roskam, a spokesperson for the CWGC, said: “We are deeply saddened by this act of vandalism to the screen wall memorial at Londonderry City Cemetery. The memorial has had initials scratched over its rear.

“The incident has been reported, and the CWGC is grateful for the strong support it has received from the local authorities. The CWGC has since focused its efforts on inspecting the damage and looking into ways to repair the damage as soon as possible.”

The twelve men commemorated died at various times between 1915 and 1919, some of injuries sustained in U-Boat attacks or whilst carrying out minesweeping duties with the Royal Naval Reserve, others of illness, whilst the fates of the rest were unspecified.

Jeroen Roskam, a spokesperson for the CWGC, said; “We deeply regret that anyone should vandalise the memorials of those who died in the two world wars. We will repair the damage as quickly as possible, so that the commemoration of those who died is restored to a standard befitting their sacrifice.”

“We will continue to work with the local community and authorities to monitor the situation.”

Last week the DUP Alderman Gary Middleton described the desecration as a hate crime. Derry City Council said the graffiti will be removed.