YCV 14th Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles

A historical mural dedicated to the Young Citizen Volunteers (YCV), a group associated with the 14th Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles. The mural is displayed on the gable wall of a building and contains key elements related to Ulster loyalist and military history.

Key Elements of the Mural:
Title: "Young Citizen Volunteers"

Indicates the 14th Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles.
Mentions the formation date: 10th September 1912.
Central Image (Black and White Historical Photograph):

Depicts a group of uniformed soldiers, most likely the YCV battalion, assembled in a formal pose.
Below this, another image shows troops on the march.
A portrait of a soldier (possibly a key figure from the battalion) appears in the lower-right corner.
Dates on the Wall (1912 & 1914):

1912 refers to the formation of the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) and the signing of the Ulster Covenant.
1914 likely signifies the start of World War I, when many UVF members enlisted in the British Army.
Military Badge and Insignia:

At the top of the mural is an emblem, likely representing the Royal Irish Rifles or YCV.
Two circular plaques on either side of the mural feature the initials "YCV" and a crown.
Text Excerpt on the Mural:

Contains a quote about duty, loyalty, and sacrifice, reflecting the commitment of these volunteers during WWI.
Historical Context:
The Young Citizen Volunteers (YCV) were initially a youth organization but later became part of the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF).
With the outbreak of WWI, many YCV members joined the British Army, forming the 14th Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles.
The battalion saw action in the Battle of the Somme (1916), a key event in Ulster military history.
Community and Symbolism:
This type of mural is commonly found in loyalist areas of Northern Ireland, emphasizing military heritage and sacrifice.
It serves as a reminder of the Ulster Protestant community’s participation in WWI and their historical ties to Britain.