Sunday 19 June marks the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the 1st Battalion US Rangers, a new elite fighting force raised in Carrickfergus in 1942. To celebrate this milestone, a family friendly event is being held at the US Rangers Museum at Boneybefore, Carrickfergus from 12noon to 3pm on Sunday 19 June. The highlight of the event will be re-enactors from the Wartime Living History Association, who will be putting visitors through their paces with training exercises and rifle drills. The event will also feature live music, crafts and more.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams said:
“Trained in commando skills in extreme conditions, they fought in some of the deadliest battles in Europe to become one of WWII’s most courageous and decorated units. It remains the only US military unit to be formed on ‘foreign soil’.
“The US Rangers Museum was opened in 1994, following a 50th anniversary reunion in September 1992, which saw more than a dozen veterans from the 1st Ranger Battalion take part in a civic celebration marking the establishment of this elite unit.
“Veterans have generously gave their photographs, memorabilia and memories over the years to create a permanent exhibition centre which explores the unit’s history, which we are very grateful for. The museum was then extensively refurbished for the 75thanniversary in 2017.
“Now, to celebrate the 80th anniversary, a new exhibition has been developed - The Rangers Remembered Exhibition – 80th anniversary of the US Rangers. This exhibition will be on display at Carrickfergus Museum on the 27 and 28 September. Here you will explore the US Rangers’ journey in a new light with a range of items including a 1940s comic book featuring the Rangers, as well as recent donations by current and former serving US Military Personnel all on display.”
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