A STREET artist from south Essex is hoping his latest breath-taking mural will engage young people in the importance of remembrance.
Dan Kitchener, who lives in Rochford, travelled to Carrickfergus in Northern Ireland to create his tribute to a battalion of US soldiers who formed in the town during Second World War.
Having created several similar murals in Southend and Rochford, Dan hopes his eye-catching artworks can convey the sacrifice of those who fought to a younger generation.
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The mural, painted on the end of a terrace in the County Antrim town, depicts an apocalyptic scene featuring a lone soldier facing off against a rubble-surrounded tank.
“I am so excited to be painting in Carrickfergus, a beautiful and welcoming historical town,” said Dan, who throughout his impressive street art career has worked with stars including Miley Cyrus, Kylie Minogue and Paul McCartney.
“The mural is based on the USA Rangers battalion which was formed in Carrickfergus during the Second World War and recognises those soldiers who fought for all our freedoms and liberty.”
American forces mobilised to get involved in the Second World War following the attack on Peal Harbour, and in 1942 the first troops landed in Belfast.
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Many of those who arrived were based at the Sunnylands Camp in Carrickfergus, which became a key strategic location during the war.
“This mural is so important, and I am humbled to be able to honour these brave men,” said Dan.
“I think these kinds of modern murals will also help to reach a younger audience who may not be aware of the historical significance and sacrifices made for them to enjoy their lives today.”
In September, Dan unveiled a similar moving mural on Southend’s Quebec Avenue as part of the Southend City Jam street art festival.
The piece commemorated the anniversary of an event that saw a German Heinkel bomber shot down over the city by brave Spitfire pilots in 1940.
Residents reacted emotionally to the mural, with veterans and current servicepeople praising Dan for the evocative image.
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