A commemorative event to mark the 75th anniversary of D Day has been held at the Model Primary School in Enniskillen.

The P4 children dressed as wartime evacuees and sang a selection of WW2 songs, much to the delight of the veterans invited. David Eames presented a painting by David Briggs on behalf of his father, Flight Lieutenant Bill Eames, who had planned to be in attendance but who is currently in hospital recovering after an operation. The painting depicted his father piloting a aeroplane on the morning of D Day, towing a Horsa Glider into Normandy.

Representatives from the RAF, Navy and Army paid tribute to the WW2 veterans and outlined why -Day was such an important event and the role their respective forces played. The US, Polish and New Zealand Consuls congratulated the children for commemorating anniversary and the connection they have made with local WW2 veterans. They noted how D Day involved soldiers from over 13 countries and its significance in achieving the eventual end of WW2.

Principal Mr. Winston Glass noted the three WW2 US camps which surrounded the school – Celtic Park, Castle Coole and Breandrum with the secret visit of General Patton and Eisenhower in early 1944 ensuring the soldiers readiness for the Normandy Landings.

The P7 class had become BBC Young Reporters, interviewing RAF Flight Lieutenant Bill Eames about his mission over Normandy on D-Day. This was followed by an interview with Squadron Leader Mark Hammond who contrasted his present day role in the RAF. The feature was broadcast on BBC Newsround and on local and national radio/tv. Special commemorative D Day books were presented to each of the veterans and special guests by the P4 children.

Throughout the day, In commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of D Day, Enniskillen Model School’s playground was transformed into a WW2 base with Spitfire aircraft, US jeeps, military equipment, US WW2 re-enactors fun activities for all the family. Children enjoyed the climbing wall, assault course & outdoor activities while learning about the equipment US soldiers used while training at Celtic Park in 1944 and having their photograph taken at the controls of a Spitfire aircraft.