An impressive crowd gathered in Carrickmore Co. Tyrone last night, May 7th, to remember the 8 brave volunteers ambushed by the SAS in Loughgall on 8th May 1987. Former PoWs, comrades, supporters, friends and family turned out in numbers to give Volunteers Declan Arthurs, Seamus Donnelly, Tony Gormley, Eugene Kelly, Patrick Kelly, Jim Lynagh, Padraig McKearney and Gerard O'Callaghan a fitting tribute.
After an honourable wreath laying ceremony, the crowd were addressed by many former friends and comrades of the fallen volunteers. Also local republicans, including members of the Loughgall Commemoration Committee, described their feelings and memories of the time and paid tribute to the fallen volunteers.
Perhaps the most moving and inspirational contributions though, came from the families of the 8 Volunteers. Their strength and sense of pride was clear for all to see, in what is undoubtedly an emotional time for the families.
Events were concluded with the ballad the 'Loughgall Martyrs' sung by Ógra activist Liam Lappin, followed by a rousing rendition of Amhran na bhFiann from the Martin Hurson Memorial Flute Band.
1 comment:
Great ogra input on the night, from Lee leading the colour party, to McN reading statement and then Lappy singing 'The Loughgall Martyrs,' excellent just excellent.
C
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