ASA Charity Honours the Fallen During 110th Anniversary Battle of the Somme Commemorations
Representatives of the Ancre Somme Association (ASA) Charity were honoured to attend the 110th Anniversary Commemorations of the Battle of the Somme at the Ulster Memorial Tower, Thiepval, France, joining thousands from across the United Kingdom and beyond in paying tribute to those who fought and fell during one of the most significant battles of the First World War.
The service, held overlooking the historic Somme battlefield, provided a moving reminder of the immense sacrifice made by the men of the 36th (Ulster) Division and all those who served during the Somme campaign. Standing on the very ground where so many lives were changed forever, ASA Charity representatives reflected on the courage, sacrifice and enduring legacy of those who gave everything for future generations.
While members of the charity were in France, commemorations were also taking place closer to home in Lurgan, where the ASA Charity hosted its annual Battle of the Somme Commemoration. The charity extends its sincere thanks to everyone who attended and helped ensure that remembrance continued at home while representatives honoured the fallen on the battlefield itself.
Special thanks are extended to the Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Councillor Lavelle McIlwrath, together with his fellow elected representatives, for their valued support and attendance. Their presence demonstrated the continuing importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice and preserving that legacy for future generations.
The charity would also like to pay tribute to the outstanding young men of the 12th Man Initiative, whose attendance and respectful participation served as a powerful reminder that remembrance continues to inspire younger generations. Their commitment to honouring the past offers great encouragement for the future of remembrance.
Speaking following the commemorations, a spokesperson for the ASA Charity said:
"Whether standing beneath the Ulster Memorial Tower on the Somme battlefield or gathering together in Lurgan, the message remains the same: we will remember them. The sacrifices made 110 years ago must never be forgotten, and it is heartening to see people of all ages continuing to come together in remembrance. We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us, both in France and in Lurgan, for ensuring that the memory of those who served lives on."
The ASA Charity remains committed to its mission of 'Remembering the Past, Supporting the Present, Educating for the Future', ensuring that the stories and sacrifices of those who served continue to educate and inspire generations to come.
We Will Remember Them
