Solving the puzzle of Lisburn war grave

Andy Glenfield, who runs the website The Second World War in Northern Ireland (www.ww2ni.webs.com), has been cataloguing and detailing information about servicemen who died in Northern Ireland during the Second World War.

“My intention is to show people that rather than having to travel to some far off field to see evidence of the war there is plenty to find here in Northern Ireland and indeed people died through direct Enemy Action in Belfast, Newtownards, Londonderry and Bangor,” explained Andy.

“I research places throughout Northern Ireland then visit and photograph what remains and put this together on my website.”

The website includes a number of entries about soldiers and military facilities in the Lisburn area, including Knockmore, Glenavy, Maghaberry Airfield and RAF Long Kesh.

Andy is keen to make sure the information is as complete as possible and he hopes the people of Lisburn will be able to help him in his efforts.

During a recent visit to the city, Andy came across a grave in Lisburn Cemetery which he found unusual.

“I was in Lisburn Cemetery and was surprised to see that the Headstone of Corporal S. Dougherty, Royal Engineers shows that he was killed on 22nd May 1945, which is after ‘Victory in Europe’ Day,” Andy continued.

“Having done some research I have found that he was a Corporal with 4 Bomb Disposal Company of the Royal Engineers, originally from Enniskillen, and may have lost his life while involved in Mine Clearance Operations in Norfolk.Corporal Dougherty was the Son of Samuel and Elizabeth Dougherty and was married to Annie Dougherty.”

However, Andy is keen to learn more about Corporal Dougherty and is hoping that someone in Lisburn might have some information they would like to share.

“Having gone through all that had happened during the war,” he said, “ I find this particularly upsetting and wonder if anyone can provide me with any other information about this very brave man?

“I have a number of entries relating to the Lisburn area on my website and if your readers know of other places worthy of inclusion I ask that they contact me at [email protected].”