I was very happy to be present in Limerick at the weekend for the unveiling of a memorial dedicated to the memory of Frank Ryan and the other local men who fought against fascism as part of the XV International Brigade in the Spanish Civil War. Those who fought in the International Brigade were not motivated by money or greed but by their faith in humanity and their love of freedom and democracy. They went to fight for a better world – a world of justice, morality, decency. One can only wonder what the bishops, the clergy, the blueshirts and the establishment politicians of Limerick who denounced the International Brigades in the 1930’s would have thought of the large parade through the city’s main streets to honour Frank Ryan and his comrades. How times have changed! Limerick certainly set a precedent on this occasion as the parade was led by an impressive Colour-Party composed of members of the ONE (Organisation of Ex-Servicemen Ireland) – bearing flags including the Plough and the Stars and the flag of the International Brigades. Following a solemn and moving ceremony the memorial (located outside City Hall) was unveiled by Charlotte Ryan Wetton a grandniece of Frank Ryan. *In August 1973 as a member of the Irish Youth delegation attending the 10th World Festival of Youth and Students in Berlin I felt particularly privileged to have the opportunity of participating in a special commemorative ceremony at Frank Ryan’s grave in Dresden. *Six years later in June 1979 when Frank Ryan’s remains were repatriated to Ireland I was present on that historic occasion to witness his coffin being borne to his final resting place in Glasnevin by veterans of the International Brigade including Michael O’Riordan, Frank Edwards, Peter OConnor and Terry Flanagan. Peadar O’Donnell spoke at his service and Con Lehane delivered the oration at the graveside. *Thirty five years later – 14th September 2014 – it was a privilege to be present at the unveiling of the first memorial to Frank Ryan and his comrades in his native county. “Ten years before I saw the light of morning A comradeship of heroes was laid From every corner of the world came sailing The Fifteenth International Brigade. They came to stand beside the Spanish people To try and stem the rising fascist tide Franco’s allies were the powerful and wealthy Frank Ryan’s men came from the other side.” From “Viva la Quinta Brigada” - Christy Moore’s moving tribute to the members of the International Brigade. *Congratulations to Limerick and to the members of the Limerick International Brigades Memorial Trust and to all who ensured the success of the commemorative weekend.
Posted on: Mon, 15 Sep 2014 14:50:35 +0000
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