On this day in 1939 the United Kingdom declared war on Germany. Tensions had been growing in Europe for some time and many felt war was imminent. On 1 September 1939 Germany invaded Poland and the British Government demanded they withdraw.
This was refused. Like many countries, the United Kingdom had been preparing for the possibility of conflict. On 31 August 1939 General Sir James Steele, a native of Ballycarry, County Antrim, signed the Executive Order that mobilised the British Army in the face of the threat from NAZI Germany.
Many from Northern Ireland, especially those from the Orange Family, would answer the call to defend Freedom.
Bro. WJ Livingstone, Star of the East LOL No. 802, (pictured below) served with the Royal Ulster Rifles in the Far East and was awarded the Military Cross.
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