Rathcoole Friends of the Somme Society 
(Is Our Full Title, from now on the Society)

Somme of the boys in Belgium 2007

Rathcoole Somme Society was formed in 2005 and didn't really get off the ground.  Then like the Phoenix from the ashes (lol) reformed a year later into the Society it is today.  In only a couple of years we have a hard core Membership of 25, all ages, shapes & sizes who all would hope to fulfill the same goals as set out in the Society's Constitution; that is to keep alive the memory of the "Battle of the Somme", and educate the young and not so young about what really happened that fateful day.  We want to bring the youth of today to visit the Battlefields and Graves of those who fought and died on the bloodiest day the British Army ever suffered, 1st July 1916. Our sympathy goes out to all who lost loved ones, but what we were there for was of course the memory of our boys (some lied about their ages) and men of the 36th Ulster Division. We were there to soak up the atmosphere which was awesome, and peruse the Headstones and Memorials to the Division, and for one member a solemn moment as he placed a wreath on his Grandfathers Grave (this will be an annual event). Lest We Forget.  We want to learn as much as possible about that day and the Volunteers that fought and died for King and Country with the Battle cry of No Surrender, some even went into battle with their Orange Sashes.  I could go on (there's some say I usually do) but I'd like you just look through the site, if you like it tell me, if not tell me why through the guest book or alternatively at info@rathcoolesommesociety.com . If anyone can attend the fundraising nights etc. if any, on the last page we would grateful for your support as the money is not for us but to pay for our goals some of which are layed out above. 

This site will expand through time, education and experience so come back and read me sometime. "You will remember me"

Useful  Links

  The Great War    The Somme Heritage Centre    History of the R.I.R. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rathcoole Somme Society,
c/o 4 Clare Gardens,
Rathcoole,
Newtownabbey.
BT37 9BX
 info@rathcoolesommesociety.com
              

                                       "This site has no affiliation to Any political or paramilitary groups"