In May 1917 four vessels, the Saint Mungo, Derrymore, Amber and the Morion, were captured and sunk in Ballyhalbert Bay, by U-boatUC 65 under the command of Otto Steinbrinck, one of the most famous U-boat commanders of World War I.[7]
The village played a major role during World War II when an RAF airfield, RAF Ballyhalbert, was built. It had the important role of protecting Belfast and the eastern half of Northern Ireland. During its lifetime, Ballyhalbert was home to RAF, Army, Navy and United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) personnel. The airfield was sold to developers in March 1960, and is in use for a caravan park and gated community known as Ballyhalbert Park Homes.[citation needed]
In stormy weather, although sea defences have been implemented, waves crashing against the coast leave debris on main roads.[citation needed] In the 21st century, a car park opposite the gospel hall has had numerous repairs to protect it from the sea.[citation needed]
Education
Victoria Primary School serves the village. Glastry College is one mile from Ballyhalbert.
^"Ballyhalbert Village". Ros Davies' Co. Down, Northern Ireland Genealogy Research Site. Archived from the original on 31 March 2009. Retrieved 25 February 2009.