The Eisenhower Pier at Bangor

This week marks 20 years since Bangor’s North Pier was officially renamed the Eisenhower Pier.

On 9th July 2005, Mary-Jean Eisenhower, granddaughter of General Dwight D. Eisenhower, came to Bangor to rededicate the pier in honour of her grandfather’s visit during the Second World War.

Many locals still remember the event.

It was a bright summer day, with a real sense of occasion. A small crowd gathered, some in uniform, others simply there out of curiosity or pride.

It wasn’t just about a new name on a sign, it was about remembering Bangor’s role in a much bigger story.

Back in May 1944, just weeks before the D-Day landings, General Eisenhower came to Bangor to inspect the fleet gathering in Belfast Lough.

Thousands of Allied troops and ships were preparing to sail for Normandy, and Bangor Bay was packed with landing craft and warships.

Eisenhower stood on the very same pier, giving orders and offering encouragement to the men who would soon be storming the beaches of France.

That visit made a lasting impression.

It linked Bangor to one of the most important military operations in history.

So when the pier was renamed in 2005, it wasn’t just a nice gesture, it was a meaningful recognition of what happened right here in our harbour.

Here’s to 20 years of the Eisenhower Pier and to remembering the part our little town played in a much bigger world