Canadian Virtual War Memorial

Photo of William George Atkinson – William Atkinson (centre) Prior to emigrating and enlisting in Canada William held the position of Bugler in the Hillsborough Fort Guard, Hillsborough Co Down. The Hillsborough Fort Guard is the oldest formal military presence in Ireland, Raised by a Royal warrant by Charles II in 1660. The hereditary title of Constable of the Fort gifted to the Hill family by Charles II obliged them to raise and command a guard of twenty warders. Over 350 years later the Guard still performs its ceremonial duties in the village and for visiting members of the Royal Family at Hillsborough Castle, Her Majesty's residence when in Northern Ireland. The current Bugler Andrew Carlisle had the honour of composing the bugle fanfare which heralded the lighting of HM platinum jubilee beacons across the Commonwealth 2nd June 2022.

Memorial – WWI Memorial medal for William George Atkinson