80th anniversary of the Cork Harbour Tragedy

Irish Defence Forces’ Charity commemorated 80th anniversary of the Cork Harbour Tragedy

Memorial weekend remembered five sailors who tragically died following the collision of two boats, due to very stormy conditions, back in 1942

ONE, Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann (or the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel) has commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Cork Harbour Tragedy this weekend. Events took place on Friday and Saturday, December 9th and 10th, at Deepwater Quay, Cobh.

The tragic incident, which occurred in 1942, saw two launch boats collide with the propellers of the Irish Poplar, resulting in the deaths of five sailors.

The Cork Harbour Tragedy memorial weekend commenced at 10:00am on the 9th of December with the L.E. WB Yeats Offshore Patrol Vessel departing Deepwater Quay in Cobh, with the families of the deceased victims onboard. They travelled to the Dognose Buoy – the location where the tragedy occurred. Members from the Port of Cork, the Irish Naval Service, the Ballycoton Lifeboat, and local Fishermen, followed the ship on its journey.

On the 10th of December, St Colman’s Cathedral Cobh hosted a memorial Mass at 10:00am, celebrating the lives of the sailors. The choir from Bunscoil Rinn an Cabhaligh sang at the Mass which included a Hymn written by Deputy Principal Alan Carney dedicated to the deceased men. Following the ceremony, the Group paraded to the Monument on East Beach Cobh for wreath-laying. In addition the National Flag was flown at half-mast where wreaths were laid.

The Mayor of County Cork represented by councillor Cathal Rasmussen joined by local TDs and other dignitaries. Members of the Defence Forces, the Royal Naval Association, ONE members and members of the deceased families were present.

ONE has helped over 1,000 veterans build their lives post-service to the Irish Defence Forces. The charity currently provides accommodation and meals for over 50 veterans, who would otherwise be homeless.

Speaking ahead of the 80th anniversary of the Cork Harbour Tragedy, CEO of ONE Cormac Kirwan said: “ONE is proud to be hosting part of the remembrance ceremonies in memory of the tragic deaths of John Higgins, Patrick Wilshaw, Frank Powell, William Duggan and Frank Lloyd, who lost their lives on active service in Ireland during the Second World War or The Emergency as it was known. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam usual.”

Donate here: https://www.one-veterans.org/one-connect-donate/

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