Diocesan News09 Nov 15

Remembrance Sunday, Tuam

As in years past, the parishioners of St Mary’s Cathedral, Tuam were joined by members of the Irish United Nations Veterans Association for the Annual Remembrance Sunday Service.

Three wreaths were laid: one on behalf of the Cathedral Parishioners, one in memory of those who served in the Rifle Brigade (the only military commemoration plaque in the cathedral is dedicated to a serviceman of the Rifles) and one on behalf of the UN Veterans. Mr Jon Cooke read The Act of Remembrance from the chancel steps.

This year the remembrance took on a particularly poignant aspect since it was held, to the day, on the 55th anniversary of the Niemba Ambush in the Congo. On 8th November 1960 a platoon of the Irish Army was ambushed by Baluba tribesmen. Of the 11–man platoon only 2 soldiers survived. This represents the greatest loss of life in a single action by the Irish Army while on Peacekeeping duties.

Those who died were: Lt. Kevin Gleeson of Carlow, Sgt. Hugh Gaynor of Leixlip, Cpl. Peter Kelly of Templeogue, Cpl. Liam Dougan of Cabra, Pt. Matthew Farrell of Jamestown, Dublin, Tpr. Thomas Fennell of Donnycarney, Tpr. Anthony Browne of Rialto, Pte. Michael McGuinn of Carlow, and Pte. Gerard Killeen of Rathmines.

See more at: http://tuam.anglican.org/remembrance-sunday-tuam/