Commemoration marks 40th anniversary

The event is non-party political and has been organised with the help of the Joe McKelvey Society, Stewartstown, and the Jeremiah O’Donovan Rossa Society, Loughshore.

Volunteers Hugh Heron and John Pat Mullan died on 16th October 1972. They were members of the Official IRA, Tyrone Brigade.

The relatives said: “Forty years ago Tyrone lost two of its finest soldiers. We, the relatives, invite Republicans to stand with us on Sunday 14th October to remember these two heroes of the Irish Republic.

“We thank everyone for their support over the last 40 years and look forward to seeing you all on Sunday 14th October in Ardbó at 1.30pm. We want to make it clear that everyone is welcome to join us. “At our request there will be no party political speeches or party political emblems on display.

“These events will commemorate both these men’s sacrifices. We thank the Joe McKelvey and Jeremiah O’Donovan Rossa Societies for organising the commemoration on our behalf.

WThe families take this opportunity to thank the Tyrone National Graves Association for the tireless work they continue to do in maintaining both Hugh and John Pat’s memory.

“We would encourage people to attend the commemoration on the 14th and share with us what will undoubtedly be a proud day.

“A free and united Ireland is as relevant today as it was 40 years ago. These two men will always be remembered as Irish men fought to remove the British Occupation of Ireland and who gave up their lives for that cause.”