September 2026
I'll begin by hoping that all members had an enjoyable and restful summer and are now refreshed and ready to participate in the busy period that lies ahead for our Branch.
The summer has been relatively quiet for me as Chairman, with only a few events to attend. On 28 June, I attended the Somme Memorial Service and wreath-laying ceremony at Knockagh Monument, accompanied by our Deputy Standard Bearer, Colin Gillen. Organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, the event was very well attended by local dignitaries, MLAs and Councillors. Also representing Ballyclare Branch were Norman Ramsay, Gavin Eastwood, Alex Eastwood, David Barnett, Brian Wilson and Wilson Murray.
Also in attendance, in her capacity as Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, was our own member, Bethany Ferris.
Following on from this, we held our own Battle of the Somme Act of Remembrance in the War Memorial Park. Sadly, attendance from the Branch was lower than I had hoped. I would respectfully ask members to give greater support to our events throughout the year. At times, it can feel as though attending an occasional Veterans Breakfast and Remembrance Sunday is considered sufficient. May I politely encourage everyone to support a wider range of our activities whenever possible.
On 11 July, I attended the Royal British Legion Ireland Somme Memorial Service at Islandbridge in Dublin. The Branch was also represented by Gavin Eastwood, Alex Eastwood and Bethany Ferris. This was an excellent occasion, attended by many from both sides of the border, with representatives proudly wearing their regimental attire. My thanks go to Paul Castles of Larne Branch for arranging the transport.
On 29 July, I conducted a drill session in the Orange Hall, primarily to provide our Parade Marshal candidate, David Barnett, with some advanced preparation for his forthcoming course. It proved to be an excellent evening, with five members attending to learn and practise basic foot drill, marching and cane drill movements. Well done to everyone who took part. I am pleased to report that David acquitted himself well on the course and will be assisting me during our future parades.
In September, I attended the Merchant Navy Day Flag Raising Ceremony at Mossley Mill, accompanied by Colin Gillen.
Finally, Gavin Eastwood and I attended a site visit at the War Memorial Park to discuss measures to help protect the memorial stones during the Remembrance Day service. Complaints were received following last year's event regarding young people climbing on the memorials to gain a better view, and we are exploring ways to prevent a recurrence this year.
As we now approach the busiest period of our year, Remembrance, can I ask all members to look out for the Poppy Appeal table rota when it is circulated and volunteer for a session where possible. Two hours of your time is not a great deal to ask and every contribution helps.
We also have a major joint event planned with St John's Church, featuring an extensive military exhibition to complement this year's theme of Remembrance. I would encourage all members to support this event and help make it a success.
Thank you to everyone who continues to support the Branch. I look forward to seeing you all at our meetings and events in the weeks ahead.
Dennis
