Carrickfergus commemorates wartime heroes with new historical panels

George Horner and his daughters.

Two interpretive historical panels celebrating Carrickfergus’s remarkable wartime stories have been unveiled at the town’s War Memorial Gardens.

The panels honour the contributions of the McAtamney family, who had seven members serve in uniform during the Second World War, and George Horner, one of the last surviving Normandy veterans in Northern Ireland and President of Carrickfergus Royal British Legion.

The unveiling ceremony took place on Saturday, 21 June, with a large crowd in attendance, including members of both the McAtamney and Horner families, friends, local dignitaries, and representatives of Carrickfergus Royal British Legion.

Unveiling of McAtamney panel.

The event featured a short dedication service led by Pastor Jonathan Grant, creating a poignant moment of reflection and gratitude.

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, paid a heartfelt tribute during the ceremony, stating:

“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.”

Speaking of the McAtamney family, the Mayor added:

“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.”

Turning his thoughts to D-Day veteran George Horner, Councillor Minford said:

“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.”

Unveiling of the George Horner historical panel.

Alderman John Ashe MBE, Mid and East Antrim’s Veterans Champion, was instrumental in the development of the project and received high praise for his tireless efforts in bringing the panels to life. He also expressed his own gratitude to the families and all who supported the initiative.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by Deputy Lieutenant Jackie Stewart MBE, while musical accompaniment was provided by members of Sir Henry Ingleby’s Fife and Drum, adding a ceremonial touch to the solemn occasion.

The two panels now stand as a lasting tribute in the War Memorial Gardens, offering residents and visitors a powerful connection to Carrickfergus’s proud wartime heritage and ensuring the sacrifices and bravery of local heroes will not be forgotten.