Historical panels recall wartime stories
Wednesday 25 June 2025
Two interpretive historical panels telling Carrickfergus wartime stories have been unveiled.
Located at the War Memorial Gardens, the panels tell the story of the McAtamney family who provided seven members in uniform in World War 2, and George Horner, President of Carrickfergus Royal British Legion and one of the last Normandy veterans in Northern Ireland.
A large gathering of members of both families, friends and representatives of Carrick Royal British Legion took part in the ceremony at the war memorial gardens, on Saturday 21 June, with a short dedication service led by Pastor Jonathan Grant.
The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Jackson Minford, paid tribute to the families and said:
“The two interpretive panels which we are here to unveil and dedicate remind us of dark days when the lights of freedom were all but extinguished.
“It was the actions of thousands upon thousands of ordinary men and women which transformed those days of darkness into days of triumph for the freedoms which we sought – and still seek – to uphold.
“In the story of the McAtamney family we can be inspired by the fact that so many saw fit to serve in times of trial. Just as the Allies were a family of nations, so brothers and sisters in one Carrickfergus family showed they stood together in defiance of all odds. The Fighting McAtamneys rightly have a place in the history of the town.
“Those who went onto the beaches at Normandy have also left a legacy to inspire us. The success of their efforts pushed back the darkness that had engulfed Europe and brought a new dawn. Men like George Horner were at the vanguard of D Day, many lost their lives in those terrible and challenging beachheads. We are so grateful that George Horner is with us for this occasion.
“As Mayor I want to pay tribute to the McAtamney and Horner families but also to remember all those from our Borough who served, especially those who did not come back.”
Mid and East Antrim Veterans Champion, Alderman Ashe MBE, was praised for his efforts in promoting the project and bringing it to reality.
The panels will be a lasting reminder to all who visit the War Memorial Gardens, whether locals or visitors, of two outstanding wartime stories from this town.
Alderman Ashe also paid tribute to the two families and all those who had helped bring the initiative to fruition.
Among those present at the unveiling of the panels was Deputy Lieutenant Jackie Stewart MBE, while members of Sir Henry Ingleby’s Fife and Drum provided musical accompaniment.