Submariners on parade

The event saw members of the Royal British Legion, sea cadets, RAF cadets, ex-servicemen and women link up with Submariners from across the Province who paraded through the village to the War Memorial led by Articlave Flute Band.

Scott Brown (NI Submariners) commented “The main theme was to capture, a sense of pride, the sense of belonging to a wider family; that was clearly evident during the parade and wreath laying ceremony in my adopted village of Dervock.

“Working with Benvardin Community Association – we secured funding from Ballymoney Borough Council (Community Support Grant) that allowed us to present a publication that encapsulates the involvement of both sections of the community. This included the story of Pte John Meeke (MM), Sgt Robert Quigg VC and James Joseph Magennis VC - although from different traditions fought in a British uniform.

“This pamphlet (Up Periscope) was circulated during the annual ‘Submariners’ Parade and Wreath laying ceremony to all sections of the community to raise awareness of a better understanding of Ulster/Irish history and the impact it had on both communities. It will help break-down barriers regarding Irish men, (Nationalists) who died fighting in British uniforms.

“The camaraderie on display during our social event again represents accurately the true story of today – and at this juncture, I would like to thank the ladies of the Royal British Legion (Dervock branch), the PSNI, the Rev K Crowe (Padre – Army Cadets) who took the salute, Mayor J Finlay and Cllr Bill Kennedy, the ladies of Dervock and District Community Association and the proprietors of the North Irish Horse Inn, Dervock who collectively helped deliver a successful event.”