Battlefield Tour

In June, we organised our first battlefield tour to Ypres Salient and the Somme.

It was a fantastic week for all involved with many highlights along the way. As well as tours of memorials and cemeteries, members of the Orange Institution and veterans had the opportunity to take part in different ceremonies.

Members of Portadown Ex Service LOL 608 and Portadown Loyal Orders paid their respects at a repatriation service in New Irish Farm Cemetery, Belgium. This was the burial of Private John Lambert, Newfoundland Regiment, an unknown soldier of the Royal Fusiliers, an unknown soldier of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, an unknown soldier of The Hampsire Regiment, two unknown British soldiers of unknown regiments and and an unknown German soldier.

Members of Portadown Women’s Orange District had the privilege of meeting the family of Private John Lambert, the Newfoundland Regiment. Private John Lambert died at the age of 17 in August 1917 at the Battle of Langemarck. His remains were discovered in 2016 and his identification was announced by the department of National Defence in December 2020.

Historical Moment

At the Menin Gate on 30th June there was an emotional, proud and historical moment for Portadown Loyal Orders. Official Participation in the Menin Gate Memorial Service in Ypres, Belgium by Portadown Ex Servicemen LOL 608 & RBP 326, Portadown Women’s Orange District No 3 and representatives of Portadown District LOL NO 1, LOL 31, LOL 161, LOL 273 and LOL 237.

106th Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme

On 1st July the tour group attended the commemoration of the 106th Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme Ceremony at the Ulster Tower, France.

Another extremely proud moment for Portadown Loyal Orders. Wreaths where laid at the Ulster Tower Memorial by Portadown Ex Servicemen LOL 608 and RBP 326. This was followed by a short service of remembrance at the Orange Memorial with wreaths laid by Portadown District LOL No 1 and Portadown District Women’s LOL No 3.