Bench tribute to soldier killed in Troubles

A MEMORIAL bench will be unveiled in Perth today in honour of a local soldier killed by the IRA in South Armagh.

Lance Sergeant Graham Stewart was a member of the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards when he was ambushed while on foot patrol in May 1990.

L/Sgt Stewart was passing a derelict house near Cullyhanna when an IRA gunman opened fire, hitting the Perth soldier.

L/Sgt Stewart was taken to hospital in Belfast but he died from his injuries.

He was 25.

The memorial bench tribute has been organised by Scots Guard veterans who were L/Sgt Stewart’s friends and colleagues.

Veteran Neil Smith said: “Graham was a top soldier.

He was destined for the top. He was already being groomed to become the regimental sergeant major – the top honour for an enlisted soldier.

“He was a young lad full of life, always immaculately turned out whether it be in uniform or civilian clothes, and was respected by all who knew him.”

Neil said that the memorial bench was bought thanks to soldiers who knew Graham donating towards the cost.

While the bench is dedicated to Graham, it has been called the Right Flank bench of remembrance to honour other soldiers in the platoon who died.

The unveiling of the memorial bench will take place today at Wellshill Cemetery in Perth.