40 years on, IRA’S appalling Stronge murders should never be forgotten

I REMEMBER well the ghastly double murder of Sir Norman Stronge and his son, Major James Stronge, 40 years ago.

This vile deed had a very profound effect on the unionist community in the area, which was, of course, the intention of the cowardly IRA gang responsible.

The Stronge family were muchloved and respected throughout Co Armagh and, in particular, Sir Norman, who, as a distinguished holder of the Military Cross, had also enjoyed a long and successful political career, which was followed by his son James.

Their murders were a deeply wicked and dastardly crime, along with the destruction of their ancestral family home, Tynan Abbey, which further angered and horrified the unionist community.

Personally, I have always been struck by the bravery of both father and son on that awful night, when they both realised the extent of the attack on their lives.

I believe that James Stronge could probably have made his escape, but, instead, he chose to remain with his elderly and frail father to await the cruel assassination of them both in the library of their beloved home.

This dedication to his father and raw courage should never be forgotten.

Anyone possessing a shred of decency, or humanity, could not fail to be deeply shocked and appalled at the cruel murders of a distinguished elderly gentleman and his courageous son.

They will always be remembered.

DANNY KENNEDY

Ulster Unionist Party chairman and former Assembly member for Newry & Armagh