This Poem was written by Gerry McGeough in 1989 when he was being held as an Irish Republican political prisoner in Germany. He was inspired to write the piece after having learned about the assassination of fellow Tyrone Republican Liam Ryan by loyalist gunmen operating in collusion with British State forces in the North of Ireland. The poem was read today at an event commemorating the 25th anniversary of Liam’s death.

Posted by Jim on December 6, 2014

To the Fallen Heroes of Tyrone A Tribute

 

I

 

In the silent hours, we retrace the years

And remember them, with pride and tears

The fallen ones, who have gone to rest

Our gallant comrades, they were our best

 

II

 

They gave their lives, for cause and home

Defending Éireann, and green Tyrone

Against foreign might, and Saxon ways

They sacrificed, their golden days

 

III

 

Honour was theirs, and courage too

Withstanding the many, though they were few

They craved not laurels, nor sought they fame

In quiet dignity, they endured all pain

 

IV

 

Soldiers were they, who knew no fear

They gave their all, for the land they held dear

Some died together, others alone

But we guard them all, in bushy Tyrone

 

V

 

From heathery hills, to meadows of green

And deep wooded glens, to the lough water’s sheen

Their names are alive, their memories revered

And by traitors and foes, are eternally feared

 

VI

 

And they speak to us yet, though their voices are still

They speak to our hearts, and convey us their will

Comrades never despair, get confused or give in

It’s for Ireland we fight, and for Éireann we’ll win

 

VII

 

We shall never forget them, the brave and the true

But honour and praise them, for all they did do

We salute them with pride, for they were our own

Our comrades who died, Volunteers from Tyrone.