JIM Shannon, MP for Strangford, has urged the local community to turn out to their local cenotaph in support and remembrance of the service personnel in the world wars and in conflicts since.
He said: “This is an opportunity to show our service personnel and our veterans that we have not forgotten their sacrifice and we do not take it for granted.
[caption id="attachment_33913" align="alignleft" width="300"]
In Flanders Fields poppies grew where nothing else could flourish after the ravages of the First World War.[/caption]“Every year I watch as people buy their poppies and wear them with pride and this is tremendous. Indeed, we sell poppies and badges in my office and it is great to see the number of people who call in to buy or call in with their poppies displayed but this is not the only opportunity to say thanks and show respect.
“A good turn out at the cenotaph speaks volumes of the esteem that was hold for our personnel and I really would encourage all who are fit and able to come out and stand in solidarity as we remember not only our war veterans but also the RUC, UDR and Prison Officers who gave their all during the Troubles so that we could sleep safely in our beds.
“So please, get your coat, hat, gloves and scarves ready to go, get the children wrapped up warmly and bring them out so they can understand how important it is to show respect to the those who put their all in the line for freedom and democracy – for OUR freedom and OUR democracy.
“We will remember them – our promise not just a phrase”
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