Greenisland and Carrick’s very own ‘Dad’s Army’ story told in new book

‘Forgotten Service: The story of Greenisland and Carrickfergus Home Guard’ has been published by Carrickfergus & District Historical Society in partnership with Carrickfergus Museum.

This insightful and important piece of work is a culmination of many years research by the author, Sean MacIntyre, who is a member of the local history group.

The account draws heavily on interviews with former Home Guard volunteers and describes their exploits, training, exercises and organisation. It also provides lists of membership of each of the eight platoons that made up the Carrickfergus Home Guard Company.

Sean said: “I hope that this book, with its publication in the year of the 80th anniversary of the formation of the Ulster Home Guard, will give some recognition of the commitment these men gave to serving their community during very dark times.

“I am deeply grateful to the historical society and museum for publishing my work and bringing it to the wider public.”

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston was delighted to meet the author at Carrickfergus Civic Centre and Museum for the launch of the book focussing on our local Home Guard ‘Dad’s Army’ during World War Two.

The Mayor, a heritage enthusiast, said: “It is important for us to continue to remember the significant role played by these men and all of the people who contributed to the war effort. We are very proud of this and should take every opportunity to celebrate as well as commemorate this period in our collective history.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr MacIntyre for his endeavours and wish him and the historical society every success with the publication, and that it does indeed remind people of this forgotten service.”

The book also includes individual, platoon and company photographs of many of the Home Guard volunteers, illustrating the forgotten service of these men during wartime.

Helen Rankin, chair of Carrickfergus & District Historical Society, said: “The society would like to acknowledge the dedication and commitment of our member Sean MacIntyre to the task of interviewing, recording and researching the men of the Greenisland and Carrickfergus Home Guard units.

“We are delighted to be able to publish this work promoting interest in our local history and engaging wider audiences in the community.” Read here

To purchase a copy of Forgotten Service: The story of Greenisland and Carrickfergus Home Guard (price £12 + £2P&P) telephone 028 93 358247 or email [email protected]

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