Members of the Democratic Unionist Party and Ulster Unionist Party gathered at the Massereene Barracks memorial in Antrim to mark the 17th anniversary of the attack that killed two soldiers.

Sappers Patrick Azimkar and Mark Quinsey died on 7 March 2009 when gunmen targeted them outside the barracks gates during food deliveries. Two other soldiers and two delivery men received wounds in the incident.

South Antrim MLA Trevor Clarke said the killings stay in the minds of Antrim and Northern Ireland residents. He described the event as an attempt to undo peace gains and noted it occurred two days before the murder of Constable Stephen Carroll.

Clarke stated that certain groups continue violent pursuits. He commended police and security forces for blocking attacks despite personal risks.

Ulster Unionist MP Robin Swann called the soldiers' deaths a sign of peace's weakness. Swann honoured armed forces members who face threats while serving.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Mayor Leah Kirkpatrick recognised the soldiers' contributions to local communities. She connected the attack to Constable Carroll's killing two days afterward.

Ulster Unionist MLA Dr Steve Aiken said the soldiers' legacy stands against terrorism. Aiken noted that some still back violent acts.