Lisburn bomb victims remembered 26 years on

At the time the six young men: Sergeant Michael J. Winkler, Lance Corporal William J Paterson, Lance Corporal Graham P. Lambie, Lance Corporal Derek W. Green, Signalman Mark R. Clavey, Corporal Ian Metcalfe had participated in the Lisburn Half Marathon when the bomb in Market Square was detonated and many other participants and spectators were injured.

Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Andrew Ewing, who laid a wreath on behalf of the Council, said: “It was an honour to be able to attend this poignant occasion, which marks a very sad time when our local community was attacked and six brave souls lost their lives.

“I was only 14 at the time and remember being shocked that the Troubles had hit our town and I was numbed by the news of the lost lives and many injuries.

“I still feel that way today as we mark the anniversary of this tragedy alongside serving and former military personnel.

“Northern Ireland has progressed significantly towards peace and reconciliation and I welcome that however we must never forget the sacrifice that was paid by so many. The callous attack on the soldiers who were out enjoying themselves with the local community and raising money for charity was a very dark day in the history of the Troubles, which still reverberates feelings of shock and hurt amongst the people who remember that horrific atrocity.

“Last year the council held a service to mark the 25th anniversary and some family members of the six soldiers were present. It is humbling to once again publicly pay our respects to these young men and know that they are not forgotten and shall be forever remembered by those living in Lisburn.”

Each year Lisburn City Council and Thiepval Barracks join together to remember those that lost their lives and those who were injured that fateful night. A permanent commemorative plaque is situated in Market Place near the site of the terrorist attack, bearing the names of the six soldiers and their regiments.