Newtownmanor

A FITTING COMMEMORATION

The autumn sun shone brightly, as the bells tolled at 11 a.m., in Sligo, on Sunday, November 11; the 100th anniversary of the Armistice, which heralded the end of the First World War. Thousands of young men from Sligo were involved in the conflict and of those, over 600 are known to have died as a direct result of their involvement.

Local historian, Simone Hickey, who has extensively researched this subject over the past several years, had approached the directors of the Blue Raincoat Theatre Company to discuss what might be done to commemorate all those who had died in the conflict.

Thus the dramatic event which took place on Armistice Sunday in Sligo. A gathering of 609 individuals (mostly men, but not exclusively so), rowed in six columns, each of over 100 persons, assembled in Wine Street, Sligo and, following a minute’s silence, proceeded in a solemn and silent procession, through the city and out to the War Memorial, at the top of Mailcoach Road. Each person involved in the procession was there representing a specific, named, deceased individual.

The route through Sligo was lined by numerous on-lookers, who maintained a dignified and respectful silence, as the procession made its way through the city. At the war memorial there was a brief period of reflection, during which ‘letters home’ from troops serving at ‘The Front’ were read aloud.

It was a very fitting commemoration for all those who had died in the conflict and an acknowledgement of the great sacrifices made and endured by all involved. Those of us who were privileged to participate will remember the day for the rest of our lives.

25 CARD GAME

The Progressive 25 Card Games have recommenced in Newtownmanor Hall on Fridays at 9 p.m. All card players are welcome and we look forward to new members coming along.

PILATES