Ógra Shinn Féin Remember The Drumnakilly Martyrs

Ógra Shinn Féin activists joined with thousands of republicans last weekend in Loughmacrory and Foremass to mark the 20th anniversary of the Drumnakilly ambush, remembering the 3 young volunteer soldiers of Óglaidh na hÉireann who where cut down in their prime on Tuesday 30 August 1988.



Brother’s Gerard and Martin Harte from Loughmacrory, and Brian Mullin from Foremass, where 3 extremely dedicated and fearless volunteers who viewed their struggle as a community struggle, with all playing a pro active role in their local community, whether it be through youth committees or the GAA.

Gerard and Martin where 2 very promising footballers, both having held Loughmacrory’s ‘Best Player of the Year’ award, with Martin inheriting it from the previous year’s holder, his brother Gerard.

The deaths of the 3 men, left huge pain and grief in Tyrone, among their family, friends, comrades and wider community, and this was clearly demonstrated with the thousands of mourners at these brave martyrs funerals.

The 20th Anniversary was fittingly organised by the Drumnakilly Martyrs Organising Committee, and included an exhibition, talks, GAA memorial tournament, the erection of monuments, a social function and culminated in a march through Loughmacrory with Martin Ferris TD giving the main oration.

Ógra Shinn Féin, participated throughout the weekend, particularly at the march, where activists marched behind a banner dedicated to the 3 men, in the Martin Hurson band, and Ógra activist Liam Lappin, sang passionately and very emotively ‘The Drumnakilly Ambush’ at the unveiling of the new commemorative garden.

Speaking on the weekend of events, West Tyrone Ógra activist, Aidy O’Donnell said,

“The Drumnakilly Martyrs, are a constant inspiration to young Republicans in Tyrone and further afield. The esteem in which they are held was clearly shown throughout the weekend as thousands of republicans, particularly the youth turned out to pay their respects and to learn of Brian, Gerard and Martin’s lives.”

“20 years on, and a new generation are spurred on by their sacrifice, and by the example that they left. They viewed their struggle as a community struggle, and dedicated their lives to ensuring their people where organised and empowered, whether it be through the community association or the GAA.”

“The flame they carried still burns on among the youth of Tyrone, and as Martin Ferris passionately put it, they will remain our inspiration to achieve the 32 County Democratic Socialist Republic. Beir bua!”