Hundreds of US Marines arrived in Derry today to commemorate its little-known but strategic place in Second World War history.
"We're here to cement the historic relationship that the Marines started with the people of Derry back in World War II," said Major General Terrence Murray, who arrived with the Quantico Marine Band and an outfit of retired Marines, the Leatherneck Pipes and Drums.
"Derry hasn’t gotten the credit it deserves for the role in played in supporting Allied operations during the war, but it was crucial,'' the Major said.
The two bands are touring tourist spots in the North and playing several concerts this weekend.
Northern Ireland provided a long-term training base for American troops preparing for the D-Day invasion of Normandy in June 1944, with Derry providing key support to the North Atlantic convoy routes that supplied Britain and Russia during much of the war.
About 20,000 US Navy personnel were based in the city, guarded by a 600 strong contingent of Marines.
AP