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Soldiers

Soldier F Trial: Contrasting Views on Bloody Sunday

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Protesters and supporters of the soldier accused of murdering civilians on Bloody Sunday, January 30, 1972, gathered outside Belfast Crown Court as the trial preparation continues. The case involves allegations of murder and attempted murder against a paratrooper, known as Soldier F, who has pleaded not guilty. This trial comes after two public inquiries, an apology from a prime minister, and a previous trial that did not conclude. Protesters held pictures of the 13 people killed that day, with families and supporters from various organizations in attendance, including Foyle MP Colum Eastwood (SDLP) and North Belfast MP John Finucane (Sinn Fein).

Key Takeaways:

  • The trial of Soldier F is a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for the 13 people killed on Bloody Sunday, January 30, 1972.
  • The case involves allegations of murder and attempted murder against Soldier F, who has pleaded not guilty.
  • Protesters and supporters gathered outside Belfast Crown Court, holding pictures of the victims and showing support for the families.
  • Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner David Johnstone highlighted the suffering of soldiers, including the murder of two Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) officers, highlighting a contrast in treatment.
  • TUV leader Jim Allister expressed concern over the disparity in treatment between veterans and terrorists, stating that multiple terrorists "continue to walk our streets effectively exercising immunity from prosecution."
  • Supporters emphasized the relentless commitment of the families and their push for justice, with John McKinney, a brother of William McKinney, saying "our message is simple: towards justice, we shall overcome."

Statistics:

  • 13 people were killed on Bloody Sunday, January 30, 1972.
  • 130 soldiers were killed in Northern Ireland in 1972, according to Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner David Johnstone.
  • Two RUC officers, Peter Gilgun (26) and David Montgomery (20), were shot dead in an attack on their patrol car in Derry days before Bloody Sunday.

Sources:

  • Sinn Fein MP John Finucane (centre) outside Belfast Crown Court (Liam McBurney/PA)
  • TUV leader Jim Allister outside Belfast Crown Court (Rebecca Black/PA)
  • PA Wire

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