Headmaster murdered during The Troubles hailed as a ‘special man’

THE son of an “admired” Lieutenant Colonel who was murdered by the Provisional IRA has said his father’s legacy “lives on”.

James (Jimmy) Saunderson, along with other family members, recently returned to Teemore, Co Fermanagh, to mark 50 years since his father, Lt. Col. George Walter Saunderson, known locally as ‘Sandy’, was killed.

Mr. Saunderson (inset right) was a well-known local headmaster who gave significant service within the B-Specials, the Second World War, and the UDR CGC. He was killed on April 10, 1974.

Ahead of this anniversary, a number of commemorative events have been planned, including a community reflections event and service of remembrance.

Speaking ahead of these events, Mr. Saunderson said his late father was a “very special man to many people”.

“He was admired within Army circles, through his role as Master of Earl of Erne School, Teemore, and through his involvement within a wide range of other local organisations, including the Church and the Loyal Orders,” Mr. Saunderson said.

“But to me, he was a special man because of the father he was; to me, but also my siblings.

“The Provisional IRA murdered him as he was approaching the point of retirement when he could finally have focused a little more upon his own personal interests, and fully enjoy life with mum.

“But he was denied that right by fanatics intent on striking fear within a borderland Protestant community, and a generation of young people attending the school at that particular point.”

Mr. Saunderson continued: “Coming back to Fermanagh is always a special experience. Despite each of us being scattered to the four corners of the world, Teemore will always be our home.

“We have been overwhelmed by the kindness of local people, and their desire to remember and honour dad. So many have remarked that dad shaped their lives, that he built their character, and best prepared them for life’s challenges.”

SEFF’s Director of Services, Kenny Donaldson, said Lt. Col. Saunderson was someone who was “revered within the local community”.

“He was the glue that held things together and his hand was in so much of the positive developments to have taken place in the area,” Mr. Donaldson said.

“He was well respected across the community; he was a fair man and was someone who knew what it was to be a good neighbour. When he was murdered, he was mourned by people of all backgrounds.

“Sandy had given significant service within the B-Specials, the Second World War, the UDR CGC and he was a leader of men recognised through his ranking.”

On Saturday night, a special Community Reflections event will take place in Teemore Church Hall, commencing at 8pm.

Then on Sunday, April 7, a service of remembrance and thanksgiving will held in Inishmacsaint Church of Ireland at 2pm, followed by an act of remembrance at his graveside (Old Derrygonnelly Church graveyard).

Refreshments will then be served in Derrygonnelly Orange Hall.

Mr. Donaldson added: “Our thoughts and prayers are with his surviving family, but also all others who will be hurting in the coming days, as they recount their special relationship with this incredible man.”