NIVA Service of Remembrance 22nd September 2007

On Saturday, 22nd September, 2007, the Northern Ireland Veteran's Association held their Annual Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum.  The service is held annually to commemorate those members of the police and security forces, who served in the pursuit of peace during 1969-2001.  302 RUC GC officers lost their lives through terrorism in Northern Ireland, and many mainland officers were also murdered whilst carrying out their duties. 

The Police Unity Memorial Association were represented by Bob Young, Stephen Young and Dave Langston.

A short service was held in the Millenium Chapel, during which Stephen Young read the Roll of Honour for all UK Police Forces who lost members as a result of terrorist attacks on the British mainland.

At the conclusion of the Chapel Service the parade of Standards, led by the Kings Regiment Association Band, made it's way to the Ulster Ash Grove for the wreath laying ceremony.  A Humber Pig and Ferret armoured car had been placed at the entrance to the Grove.  Bob Young then read the emotive poem "The Oak and the Ash" dedicated to the police and army personnel who are commemorated there.  Mr Jimmy McMaster also paid tribute to the members of the Ulster Defence Regiment CGC, with Dave Langston honouring all other regiments who served in Northern Ireland.

Mr David Parkhill, chairman of the Northern Ireland Veteran's Association laid the first wreath, accompanied by Stephen Young, who laid his wreath on behalf of the children born in Northern Ireland after the ceasefire was declared.  At the conclusion of the Last Post ceremony the parade reformed and marched back to the Visitor's Centre, led by the NIVA and RUC GC Foundation Standards.  Many friendships were formed and renewed, especially by young Stephen who spent a long time talking to the Chelsea Pensioners in attendance!  A buffet reception was then held at the Royal British Legion, Alrewas.  The weekend's events concluded with an informal evening meal at the Trooper Inn, Wall Island.