In a poignant journey to pay tribute to the gallant sacrifices of the past, members of the 1st Shankill Somme Association embarked on a solemn pilgrimage to France and Belgium 20th August 2018, retracing the footsteps of the 36th Ulster Division and commemorating the historic Battle of the Somme.
The journey was filled with emotional visits to significant sites and heartfelt remembrance ceremonies, as the association members and their guests honoured the memory of those who fought valiantly during one of history’s most defining conflicts.
The delegation’s itinerary included visits to some of the most hallowed grounds for the British and Irish Commonwealth Cemeteries.
Among these sacred sites were the Menin Gate, Thiepval Memorial, and Connaught Cemetery, where row upon row of gravestones stand as a testament to the lives that were laid down for the cause of freedom and justice.
Yet, it was not just the cemeteries that resonated with the visitors. The group also embarked on a unique journey to Frelinghien, France—a place that bears a poignant memory from Christmas Day 1914.
Here, amidst the grimness of No Man’s Land, German and British soldiers put aside their enmities, creating a temporary truce that allowed them to partake in a short but unforgettable game of football.
This remarkable display of humanity amidst the horrors of war served as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, even in the direst of circumstances.
A particularly poignant moment came during the service of remembrance held at The Ulster Tower.
This symbolic tower stands as a poignant reminder of the 36th Ulster Division’s bravery and sacrifices during the Battle of the Somme.
As the attendees gathered to pay homage, the air was thick with a sense of reverence and gratitude for those who gave their all in the pursuit of a better world.
For the members of the Shankill Somme Association, this annual journey holds deep significance.
It serves as a bridge between generations, ensuring that the sacrifices made by those who came before are not forgotten by those who walk the path of the present.
Through their unwavering dedication to this tradition, they keep the flame of remembrance alive, passing it on to the generations yet to come.
As the association members returned from their journey, their hearts were undoubtedly heavy with the weight of history, but also uplifted by the spirit of unity and the hope for a world where conflicts are resolved through dialogue rather than warfare.
The legacy of the 36th Ulster Division and the Battle of the Somme lives on, etched not only in the annals of history but also in the hearts of those who continue to honour their memory.