A historic US flag, which was flown at half-mast following the assassination of President John F Kennedy in 1963, has been stolen from the grounds of a school built on the site of a former US naval base.
It was removed from Foyle College, on the Limavady Road in Londonderry, in the early hours of Sunday, police have said.
The flag, which was gifted to the school by members of the former US Naval Communications Station, holds significant historical value both locally and internationally.
It was last officially flown at the base in November 1963 to mark President Kennedy’s death and more than half a century later in 2019 was presented to Foyle College which had moved to the site the year before.
‘Sentimental and historical’
Since then, it has been raised on only two special occasions each year on the school grounds.
It is flown on US Independence Day (4 July) and on the anniversary of JFK’s assassination (22 November).
Speaking to BBC News NI, the bursar of Foyle College, Neil Stewart, said this “is not just any old, run-of-the-mill flag” but is of “huge sentimental and historical value.”
“It’s not just one that was bought in a shop – that flag is the actual flag that was proudly displayed on the base.”
Mr Stewart described its removal as “senseless” and appealed for its immediate return.
He said the school had recently hosted a number of special guests for a flag-raising ceremony to mark US Independence Day.
Mr Stewart said among those in attendance was Frank Ekstrom, who was stationed at the US Navy Communications Base.
He was accompanied by his son-in-law, David Duffy, as well as Elaine and Sandra Malcor.
Sandra’s late husband served at the base and she also worked there.
“This flag means a lot to so many people, and it has real historical value,” Mr Stewart said
“Why anyone would go out of their way to remove it makes no sense to me.”
Police appeal for return of flag
The police said they received a report an American flag being flown on property on Limavady Road had been stolen during the early hours of Sunday.
“This is reported to have occurred at 04:00 BST, involving two individuals, both believed to be male,” the police said.
Police have appealed for anyone with information, or who know of the whereabouts of the flag, to contact them.
Why were the US Navy in Derry during World War Two?
The US Navy was first stationed in Derry during World War Two, a conflict in which the city played a pivotal role.
Base One Europe, the US Navy’s operating base in Northern Ireland, had its headquarters on the site of the current Magee campus.
It was vital to the protection of convoys in the Atlantic and, at one time, 140 Allied escort ships were based on the River Foyle.
The US Navy maintained a presence in the city for a further four decades until the closure of the communications station in September 1977.
The Stolen Flag
The stolen flag, which was raised at half-mast following the tragic assassination of President Kennedy, was a symbol of mourning and unity for the American people. The flag served as a reminder of the nation’s loss and the need for solidarity during a time of grief. Its theft has not only robbed us of a tangible piece of history but has also desecrated the memory of a beloved leader.
Significance of the Flag
The flag that flew after President Kennedy’s assassination holds a special place in American history. It represents a pivotal moment in time when the nation came together to mourn the loss of a visionary leader. The flag serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of President Kennedy and the resilience of the American spirit in the face of adversity.
Preserving Our National Treasures
The theft of the historic US flag underscores the importance of preserving our national treasures. These artifacts not only tell the story of our past but also serve as symbols of our shared heritage. By safeguarding these relics, we honor the sacrifices and achievements of those who came before us and ensure that future generations can learn from our history.
The Investigation
Authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the theft of the flag. They are urging anyone with information to come forward and help bring the perpetrators to justice. The flag is considered a priceless piece of American history, and its safe return is paramount to preserving our national legacy.
Conclusion
The theft of the historic US flag flown after the JFK assassination is a tragic loss for our nation. As we work to recover this important artifact, let us remember the significance of preserving our national treasures for future generations. Together, we can ensure that these symbols of our past continue to inspire and unite us as Americans.