2nd Ahoghill Company Section took part in the annual remembrance parade in Ballymena this morning, which had been organised by the Royal British Legion.
The parade was comprised of ex-service members and members of various uniformed youth organisations. Although an annual event, this year’s parade was particularly poignant; as it marked the 100th anniversary of the start of the first world war.
The parade began at Services Club, on Trostan Avenue, to form up with the rest of the parade. At 10:25am, the parade marched off and made its way down Trostan Avenue, Castle Street, Bridge Street, Waveney Road and into the Memorial Gardens on the Galgorm Road.
A short service of remembrance was led by Rev John McClure of St Patrick’s Church of Ireland, which began with the singing of “O, God our help in ages past”. At 11am, a minutes silence was observed. This was followed by the laying of wreaths by representatives of each organisation.
After the service, the parade formed and paraded to St Patrick’s via Wellington Street, where Mayor of Ballymena Mrs Audrey Wales MBE took the salute. The church service was led by Rev McClure, and included readings by the Mayor and Mr Jim McGookin BEM PSB. After the sermon, the names of the fallen connected to St Patrick’s were read, followed by another act of silence and the laying of wreaths.
Upon leaving St Patrick’s, the parade formed up and marched back to the Services Club via the Demesne and Tardree Grove.
Many thanks to the boys, and their families, who made the effort to be in attendance; and to Mark Lyttle for his assistance with transportation to and from the parade.
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They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Lest We Forget.