Participants were welcomed by Rosemary Bell McCracken, of Rath Community Group, which organised the commemoration. The service was opened by the Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey and Veterans Champion, Councillor Alison Bennington, who also laid a wreath in tribute to the fallen.
The organisers extended thanks to everyone who attended the Row on Row service and all the groups, elected representatives and individuals who laid wreaths, noting: “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”
There was a special thank-you to all those involved in organising the event, plus Rathcoole Protestant Boys band for “a fine performance by them as always”; George McKimm and Tommy Braiden of the Peoples Church Newtownabbey “for the lovely service”, and the staff at the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.
Rath Community Group added: “The garden is an open space and is available to members of the community to lay crosses, please feel free to at any stage. Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much! Not for glory nor riches, but for our people.”

5. Remembrance Service
All ages attended the Remembrance service in Rathcoole. Photo: Provided

6. Remembrance Service
Members of the community taking part in the commemoration. Photo: Provided

7. Remembrance Service
World War Two vehicles added to the poignancy of the occasion. Photo: Provided

