1st Ranger Battalion Sua Sponte

1st Ranger Battalion - Sua Sponte, found just outside Carrickfergus train station.

A large, highly detailed mural painted on the gable wall of a house. Here’s what it depicts:

Main Imagery

Soldier:
A single soldier stands on the right side, viewed from behind. He is wearing a military helmet and uniform, carrying gear, and holding a rifle. His posture suggests he is observing the scene in front of him.

Tank:
A large tank dominates the left side, moving forward over rubble. Flames and smoke appear around its tracks, giving the impression of intense battle or destruction.

Environment:
The background shows a devastated urban landscape — ruined buildings, smoke, and a dramatic sky with beams of light breaking through the clouds.

Ground detail:
The ground is covered in shattered debris. At the soldier’s feet, there is a small cluster of bright red poppies, a strong visual contrast symbolising remembrance.

Insignia / Text

Near the top is a crest and banners with:

“1st Ranger Bn”

A shield-style insignia

“Sua Sponte” (Latin for “Of their own accord,” motto of the U.S. Army Rangers)

This suggests the mural is themed around the U.S. Army Rangers, likely referencing WWII imagery (the soldier’s uniform and tank design support this).