Tears for Maggie

Maggie McCormick was the mother of Ranger Aaron McCormick, who was killed during active service in Afghanistan, she will be laid to rest today (Tuesday).

On Sunday, two weeks before Aaron’s fifth anniversary, Maggie sadly lost her battle with an illness.

Ranger McCormick (22) was fatally wounded clearing an area of improvised explosive devices during a patrol in the Nad Ali south region of Helmand on Remembrance Sunday 2010.

On social media, tributes have been paid to the devoted mum by soldiers who served alongside Aaron and by other families who have lost relatives in Afghanistan.

Former Royal Irish Regiment soldier, Andy Allen, who is now an MLA in Stormont, spoke to The Coleraine Times describing the Macosquin mother as ‘brave and inspirational’.

Andy, had his right leg blown off and left leg badly injured by a makeshift bomb while on patrol in Afghanistan in 2008. He later set up the charity AA Vetrans, a charity to help war veterans here in Northern Ireland. The McCormick family were keen supporters of the charity.

“Maggie was a brave and inspirational lady who I have the pleasure of calling a friend.

“Maggie was motivated in her selflessness to help others - I recall vividly many conversations we had where she was seeking the best for others.

“She will be dearly missed and forever remembered by many. My thoughts and with Lesley and family at this sad time.”

Maggie’s funeral will take place today, Tuesday at St Mary’s Parish Church, Macosquin at 3pm.