26th January in wartime Northern Ireland

On 26th January 1942, the first elements of the United States Army arrived in Northern Ireland, beginning their time in the European Theatre of Operations.

The first elements of the United States Army arrive in Northern Ireland

26th January 1942

On 26th January 1942, elements of the United States Army began to arrive at Belfast Docks in Northern Ireland marking their entry into the war in Europe.

The United States Army begins the friendly invasion of Ulster

26th January 1942

In January 1942, elements of the United States Army crossed the Atlantic Ocean arriving in Northern Ireland and beginning a "friendly invasion" of Ulster.

The British Army set up camps for the Americans in Ulster

26th January 1942

Before the arrival of the American Expeditionary Force in Ulster, soldiers of the British Army helped set up camps for their new Ally in the war in Europe.

The statement from Mr. John Miller Andrews (Prime Minister of Northern Ireland)

26th January 1942

Following the arrival of the first elements of the U.S. Army in Belfast in January 1942, Prime Minister Mr. John Miller Andrews issued an official welcome.

The U.S. Army in uniform dresses to impress in Northern Ireland

26th January 1942

As the first elements of the U.S. Army arrived in cities, towns, and villages throughout Northern Ireland, locals remarked on their good looks and uniforms.

The First Anniversary

On 26th January 1943, the Duke of Abercorn (Governor of Northern Ireland) unveiled a commemorative stone that still stands in the grounds of City Hall, Belfast.