Local Royal Irish Reservist preparing for Remembrance Sunday

They will be supporting some 16 events across the province ranging from Cenotaph duty to providing full marching guards.

Soldiers from Lisburn, Ballymena, Portadown and Enniskillen have spent time ‘bulling’ shoes, polishing medals and belts to having uniforms tailored and fitted for this year’s parade where they will remember the Regiments past from South Africa 1899-02; Gallipoli to the Somme during World War 1, Sicily to Germany in World War 2 not forgetting Korea, Northern Ireland, Iraq and more recently Afghanistan. The Regiments history stems over many decades and numerous conflicts from its inception in 1689.

Local Lisburn Reservist, Corporal Neil Hughes, said: “This year in the Centenary of the Battle of the Somme it is even more poignant and we will be remembering those who paid the supreme sacrifice for us both during the Great War not forgetting the more recent conflicts such as Irag and Afghanistan”

Company Sergeant Major, Trevor McFarland, takes time to inspect some of the young soldiers who will be parading on Sunday.

He said: “A lot of time and effort goes into ensuring the young lads are at their best both doing drill and in their turnout.

“The Unit here in Lisburn takes a great pride in marching on Remembrance Sunday and providing the RBL with support on the day. CSM McFarland also said the Unit was also parading at Lisburn, Portadown, Lurgan and Ballynahinch where we will provide wreath layers and Cenotaph Guards”.

“If you have the drive, ambition and interest and are reasonably fit, telephone or text INFO to 07920 232380; or for more information search “Army Reserve” and go to Army Reserve at www.army.mod.uk, register your interest and you’ll be contacted by email or phone. If its excitement you want then state “Combat” as a role. One of our recruiters will then make contact and invite you in to meet us in person. We look forward to meeting you soon.”