The DUP representative made the call following the Memorial Service to mark the 40th anniversary since the murder of Sgt Gordon Wilson, who served in the Royal Ulster Constabulary GC. The service was held in the Sir Henry Wilson Memorial Hall, Loughbrickland with over 300 in attendance. 

Carla Lockhart said:

“As a community, we gathered to share the sorrow of the Wilson family at their loss, to give thanks for the life of Sgt Wilson, and to remember the ruthless bloodshed inflicted upon our land by the IRA. Sgt Wilson left behind a wife and a six week old daughter. In such a short space of time, that family went from the joy of a new born child to the heartache of losing a husband and father. Sadly, across Northern Ireland, so many families can share this experience.

We owe the men and women of the RUC GC a great debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice. Over 300 officers paid the ultimate sacrifice during their service. In todays service, whilst the focus was on Sgt Wilson, we also thought of so many others who lost their lives. This included Constable Eddie Magill who was also murdered 40 years ago this weekend.

It is clear that as time passes, there is a concerted attempt to erase such heinous acts from our history. We must not let this happen. Some would portray some of the most blood stained hands in our history as those of peacemakers. What an insult to innocent victims. Some, including those who lead Sinn Fein, say their was no alternative to killing men like Gordon Wilson, and snatching that father away from his six week old daughter. It is hard to fathom a mindset that can find no alternative to such evil.

Today our thoughts, and our love, are with the Wilson family and all those who mourn. They will never be forgotten.”