Services to mark 35 years since Drumnakilly shootings

COMMEMORATIONS are taking place next week to mark the 35th anniversary of the deaths of three IRA men killed by the British Army on a country road outside Omagh.

Brothers Gerard and Martin Harte, and their brother-in-law Brian Mullin, were shot by the SAS on the Drumnakilly Road on August 30, 1988.

Since their deaths, the trio have become known as the ‘Drumnakilly Martyrs’.

Next Wednesday (August 30), commemorations will take place at Brian’s grave in Dunmoyle at 7pm and at Gerard and Martin’s grave in Loughmacrory at 8pm.

Then, on Saturday, September 1 at 3pm, people are asked to assemble in Loughmacrory for a parade to the grave of Gerard and Martin Harte.

Tyrone National Graves Association has been assisting the families in organising the commemoration.

Eamonn Hanna, chair, said, “Tyrone National Graves Association is honoured to organise the 35th anniversary commemoration for these three brave Irish soldiers. These men were husbands, fathers, sons and brothers to their loved ones.

“They died for the Republic, for the freedom of us all.

“Sadly, that freedom continues to be denied to the Irish people by Britain.

“Their sacrifice of is one that is still an inspiration to us all.

“Their memories are strong in the hearts of the people of Tyrone and across Ireland.

“We invite everyone to join with us to remember Brian, Gerard and Martin.

“Fuair said bás ar son saoirse na hÉireann.”