A SPECIAL Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication of an RUC George Cross Station Crest Memorial is to be held at St Columba's Parish Church, Omagh, on Sunday, September 16, at 3pm. The interdenominational service is being hosted by the Royal Ulster Constabulary GC Association Omagh Branch, with the dedication being performed by the Church of Ireland Bishop Ken Good of Derry and Raphoe.
A number of invitations have been issued for the occasion, the latest in a series of dedications following the decision to release the Station Crests which were removed from RUC Stations across Northern Ireland at midnight on November 3, 2001, the eve of the transfer of Northern Ireland policing and security duties to the PSNI.
The crests are now the property of the RUC George Cross Historical Society based at Police Headquarters, Brooklyn, Knock Road, Belfast.
The one to be installed in St Columba's Parish Church has been mounted on black granite and is suitably inscribed, "In memory of members who made the supreme sacrifice 1922 – 2001".
However, the complementary Roll of Honour pays tribute to 12 officers who served and died in the service of their country in the Omagh Sub-Division at stations in Omagh, Beragh, Ballygawley, Aughnacloy, Castlederg and Carrickmore between 1973 and 1984.
A spokesman for the Omagh branch said his association was honoured to be able to promote this very special occasion.
He hoped that many local people from all walks of life would be in the congregation to witness the dedication of the crest which had formerly been sited at the entrance to an RUC Station within Omagh Sub-Division.
Heading the guest list is the Lord Lieutenant for County Tyrone, the Duke of Abercorn, accompanied by the Duchess.
The list also includes local politicians, MLAs, a number of former and currently serving police officers and local clergy representing Omagh Churches Forum.
Music at the service will be provided by St Columba's Parish Church Choir under the leadership of the organist Elizabeth Seale, M.Ed., B.Mus and the soloist will be Sarah Killow, ALCM.
