A Co Down soldier who was killed in a 'special order' WWI battle is to have his name officially dedicated on a war memorial almost 105 years since his death.
The Castlewellan born soldier fought and died in Flanders on April 10, 1918 during the Battle of the Lys.
The strong German advance on the Allied Forces during the battle was so great it witnessed British Field Marshall Sir Douglas Haig issue his famous "Backs to the Wall" order.
Read more: Ghost soldier filmed sitting 'clear as day' on bench next to war memorial.
Mournes councillor, Laura Devlin (SDLP) said: "Remembering our dead is so very important, not just for the family, but our wider community, so I am really pleased to be able to play a small part in this happening.
"The deceased soldier's nephew, lives in Newcastle and is a family friend.
"He made contact with me last summer as he wanted his uncle's name added to Castlewellan’s War Memorial. He was a First World War soldier, from Annsborough and he died in service.
"I began the process of trying to find out how his name could be added, I , along with my colleague Cllr Hugh Gallagher , went to a number of organisations and eventually landed back with council.
"Since finding the correct department within council matters have now moved very swiftly, which is great to see and I thank the officers for their time and work on getting us to this point.
"The memorial is located on the side of the Market House in Castlewellan, which houses the library.
"There is space on the plaque so it shouldn't be a big job of work adding the name on.
"Upon its ratification at March’s full council, officers will make contact with Libraries NI for final consent."
A Newry, Mourne and Down District Council officer added: "It is estimated that the proposed cost to the council in this matter will be £250.
"The application meets the council's criteria with supporting evidence provided in relation to the birthplace, service and death details fo the deceased.
"Whilst no budget allocation has been made to facilitate such applications, it is proposed to use council general maintenance budget to cover the cost and therefore no additional expenditure will be incurred."
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