Allister welcomes marvellous RIR parade
20 May 2011
“Tonight’s Welcome Home Parade for the RIR in Ballymena is a marvellous opportunity for the town and its people to show their gratitude for the selfless courage of our young soldiers, so many of whom come from the towns and villages of North Antrim.
“We are all proud of them. It is a fitting tribute to their bravery and to their families that this parade and reception should take place. It seems a long time since Roy Gillespie first suggested it, but tonight Ballymena and district can stand proud with the RIR. While we celebrate with the local families, we remember, of course, the three Northern Ireland soldiers who laid down their lives on this tour in Afghanistan. I also think of those seriously injured, like Ranger Gillespie from Galgorm, and rejoice in his significant recovery. Their sacrifice reminds us all of how much we owe our armed services.”
