Lockerbie Disaster celebration of ‘remembrance and gratitude’

A special service is set to take place at Lockerbie’s Tundergarth Parish Church on December 21st to commemorate the 36th anniversary of the tragic act of terrorism that shook the world. The Dumfries and Galloway church, along with other iconic sites at Tundergarth, will host a community celebration of “remembrance and gratitude” in memory of the 270 victims, including 11 Lockerbie residents, who lost their lives in the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 on December 21, 1988.

Visitors to Tundergarth can pay their respects at the Air Disaster Remembrance Room, the old kirk ruins, and the field where the nose cone of the Boeing 747 came to rest. The special service, organised by the Tundergarth Kirks Trust and the Pan Am 103 Lockerbie Legacy Foundation, will feature uplifting performances and verse by local artists. The event will also unveil a new Wall of Honour display showcasing the official coats of arms of responder organisations involved in the aftermath of the attack.

Chairperson of the Tundergarth Kirks Trust, Lori Carnochan, highlighted that this year’s service will focus on expressing gratitude for the responders, volunteers, and locals who showed extraordinary service and humanity in the face of tragedy. The service aims to honour the selflessness and compassion demonstrated by all those who assisted the town in the aftermath of the disaster and in the years that followed.

In addition to remembering the victims, the service will celebrate the unique bond formed in the aftermath of the tragedy. The event is open to all, with attendees requested to register by emailing tundergarthkirks@gmail.com by December 16th and arriving between 12.30pm and 1pm on the day.

The anniversary service at Tundergarth Parish Church serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and unity demonstrated in the face of adversity. It honours the memory of those lost in the Lockerbie disaster while recognising the profound impact of collective action and compassion in times of crisis.

Insights and Summary:
The commemoration event at Tundergarth Parish Church in Lockerbie stands as a symbol of remembrance, unity, and gratitude in the wake of the devastating terror attack that occurred 36 years ago. This event not only pays tribute to the lives lost but also recognises the resilience and humanity displayed by responders, volunteers, and the local community in the aftermath of the tragedy. By coming together to honour the past and celebrate the bonds forged through hardship, the service acknowledges the power of compassion and solidarity in healing and rebuilding communities.