Commemorating a Hero: 1st Shankill Somme Association at Carrickfergus Memorial Parade
On Saturday, 1st June 2024, members of the 1st Shankill Somme Association had the solemn honour of participating in a memorial parade hosted by the Friends of the 36th Ulster Division Association in Carrickfergus.
This parade was a tribute to the late Sgt T.G. Wortley, a valiant member of the 14th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles – Y.C.V, who lost his life on June 7, 1917, during the Battle of Messines in France.
His unwavering commitment and sacrifice in service to his country left an indelible mark on history.
The event commenced with a dignified march around Carrickfergus town centre, where participants, supporters, and onlookers gathered to pay their respects.
The atmosphere was charged with a deep sense of remembrance and community spirit as the parade made its way through the historic streets of Carrickfergus.
Following the march, attendees proceeded to St Nicholas Church, a site of significant historical and cultural importance. Here, we participated in a Drum Head service, a traditional military ceremony that brings together the community in a shared act of remembrance.
The service was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served, and it reinforced the values of courage, honour, and duty that Sgt Wortley exemplified.
The memorial service in the church graveyard was particularly moving. As we gathered around Sgt Wortley’s gravestone, we were reminded of the profound impact he had on this community.
His name is etched in history, and his final resting place lies in the Spanbroekmolen British Cemetery, location C.10 in France. Alongside him rests Rifleman James Sharpe, another Carrickfergus man who also fell on that fateful day.
The service included heartfelt speeches, prayers, and the laying of wreaths, all of which underscored our collective gratitude and respect for Sgt Wortley’s service and sacrifice.
Noel Leggett, the chairman of the 1st Shankill Somme Association, expressed his sentiments, stating, “It was a great honour to attend the memorial service. Sgt Wortley’s legacy is one that we hold dear, and we are committed to keeping his memory alive.
We look forward to attending next year and continuing our support for the Friends of the 36th Ulster Division Association.”
The 1st Shankill Somme Association extends its heartfelt thanks to the Friends of the 36th Ulster Division Association for organizing this important event. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to participate and pay our respects to Sgt Wortley.
Events like these are vital in ensuring that the bravery and sacrifices of our forebears are never forgotten.
As the bugle’s mournful notes drifted away into the wind, the memory of Sgt T.G. Wortley and all those who served alongside him remained steadfast, a beacon of courage and dedication that will forever be honoured by the people of Carrickfergus.
The annual memorial parade and service serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during times of conflict and their enduring impact on the communities they left behind.
As we look forward to next year’s parade, we remain dedicated to our mission of remembrance and education, honouring those who have served and preserving their stories for future generations.
Sgt Wortley’s memory will forever be a guiding light for the Carrick people, inspiring them to uphold the values of honour, duty, and sacrifice.
Thank you to all who attended and supported the event. Your presence and participation are a testament to the enduring legacy of our heroes and the strength of our community.
Lest we forget.