he Northern Ireland Riders Branch demonstrated its continued dedication to remembrance and service over the weekend of 7 and 8 March, with members attending two important memorial services to honour fallen soldiers and show support for the wider military family.

Across both days, branch members turned out in strong numbers, reflecting not only the respect held for those being remembered, but also the deep sense of duty and comradeship that remains at the heart of the Riders Branch.

On Saturday, 7 March, twenty-one members of the Northern Ireland Riders Branch attended the Massereene Service held in Market Square, Antrim. The service was conducted in honour of Sappers Mark Quinsey and Patrick Azimkar, whose loss continues to be felt deeply by the military community and all those who value the sacrifice made by members of the Armed Forces.

The gathering provided an opportunity for those present to pause, reflect, and pay their respects in a dignified setting. It was a moment of quiet remembrance, bringing together veterans, supporters, and members of the public in shared recognition of the courage and service of the fallen. Representing the branch, Mervyn McAleese laid a wreath on behalf of the Northern Ireland Riders Branch, a gesture that symbolised both remembrance and the branch’s enduring respect for those who have given their lives in service to their country.

The weekend of remembrance continued on Sunday, 8 March, when fifteen branch members attended the memorial service at Whitebrae. This service was held in memory of the three off-duty Scottish soldiers — John McCaig, Joseph McCaig, and Dougald McCaughey — who were tragically killed at the site in 1971.

Their memory remains an important part of the shared history of remembrance, and the Whitebrae service offered another solemn occasion for reflection. Those attending paid tribute not only to the lives that were lost, but also to the families, friends, and communities forever affected by that tragedy. On this occasion, Glen Wilson laid a wreath on behalf of the branch, representing the Northern Ireland Riders Branch with dignity and respect.

Attendance at both services was a clear sign of the branch’s ongoing commitment to remembrance and its support for the wider military and veterans’ community. The presence of so many members across the weekend served as a reminder that remembrance is not simply about looking back, but about continuing to stand together in honour of those who served, sacrificed, and never came home.

For the Riders Branch, occasions such as these are an important part of its role within the veteran and Armed Forces community. By attending memorial events, laying wreaths, and standing alongside others in remembrance, the branch continues to uphold the values of respect, loyalty, and service that are central to its identity.

The Northern Ireland Riders Branch can take pride in the strong turnout and the respectful way in which it was represented across both events. Through the actions of its members, the branch once again showed that remembrance remains a vital and living commitment — one carried forward not only in words, but in presence, tribute, and shared reflection.