Drumnakilly Martyrs 19th Anniversary

(A Drumnakilly Martyrs painting which Ógra will present to the families)

19 years ago today, the 30th August, 3 fine youthful volunteers of Óglaigh na hÉireann where killed while on active service in the Drumnakilly townland of Tyrone.

Brothers Gerard and Martin Harte, and their comrade Brian Mullin where cowardly ambushed by a unit of the British SAS.

The two Harte Brother’s hailed from the Republican village of Loughmacrory and where key people in their local area, both being members of the local GAA team, and assisting in local community projects.

Brian Mullin was from the Foremass area of Tyrone, his family known locally as the ‘Bard’ Mullins because a relative of theirs was a local storyteller. Brian was actively involved in his local community and all 3 where extremely dedicated Republican activists.

Despite the establishment media’s negative portrayal of the three men, the lies, deceit and slanderous comments where clearly rejected by the local community. Thousands lined the country roads of Loughmacrory and Foremass to pay tribute to these fine volunteers.

Their memory lives on today in their family, community, and the Republican Movement.

We in Ógra Shinn Féin, the Republican Youth of Tyrone salute the bravery of our fallen comrades and remember them with pride!

“If you strike at, imprison, or kill us, out of our prisons or graves we will still evoke a spirit that will thwart you, and perhaps, raise a force that will destroy you! We defy you! Do your worst!” James Connolly


To view a short film on the Drumnakilly Martyrs click here.