More forces commemorations urged

Mr Swann is UUP North Antrim Chairman and Party Spokesman on Social Economy, Energy and Consumer Affairs, while Rev Dr Coulteris the Ulster Unionist Party Assembly member for North Antrim and UUP Stormont Commissioner.

The two UUP men issued their joint statement after visiting the “very professionally displayed” Bushmills At War exhibition in the village’s Dunluce Parish Centre.

They were accompanied by other UUP members and supporters, including former Moyle Chairman Councillor William Graham and Mrs Mary Warner.

Mr Swann and Dr Coulter said: “The organizers of the Bushmills At War display are to be highly commended for putting on a very professional and moving event.

“We need more of these excellent displays staged across the constituency to commemorate the terrific contribution which folks from North Antrim have made, and continue to make, over the generations to the British security forces.

“We must avoid the pitfall of just seeing commemorating that magnificent contribution as being limited to Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day.

“The work of our security forces goes on 24/7, especially with our forces serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as combating the dissident threat here in our Province.

“We must also not forget the families of those who are serving, who have served, and particularly the loved ones who have to bear the burden of grief at the loss of a relative or friend killed on duty.

“Commemorative displays, such as the Bushmills At War event, help considerably in keeping the families of the fallen and serving forces constantly in our thoughts and prayers.

“We pay tribute to the organizers of the various commemorative events which already exist in North Antrim and hope this impressive list can be increased over the coming months.

“When a person sees the superb array of medals on display at such events, we as a community can fully appreciate the sacrifice and dedication which these forces made,” said Mr Swann and Rev Dr Coulter.