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The Minstrel Boys |
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Recreating the role of the Irish in the American Civil War 1861-65 |
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We formed up within the grounds of Movilla Cemetery. The Color party consisted of a 2Lt, Sgt, Corp, 4 Pvts plus 2 WW2 airborne troopers who represented the Wartime Living History Association. Sgt Reid greeted the VIPs at the main gate. Mayor of Ards Councillor Jim Fletcher and Mrs Fletcher also Mr Brian Adams, great grandson of James Francis. VIPs escorted to the graveside and welcomed by Lt. Robinson. Color party with National and Regimental colors marched on taking up position inward facing on either side of the family plot. With the Color party at parade rest Lt. Robinson spoke on the life of James Francis and also the other Irish born who served during the 1861-65 conflict and those who still serve around the world. Councillor Fletcher replied thanking the Minstrel Boys for their invitation to attend and also drew a parallel to his own family where members had also gone to America during the same period and later returned to Ireland. A situation repeated in many families across the land. Mr Adams also expressed his thanks on behalf of the family of James Francis and said he was delighted that his great grand father was being remembered in this way. He was proud of his service and of his return to Northern Ireland where his family still reside and prosper. Mr Adams is a history teacher and current Chairman of the town's Irish league soccer team. The Color party was called to attention and Lt Robinson laid a wreath on behalf of the Minstrel Boys Living History Group. The wreath flowers were coloured red, white and blue and a green ribbon was attached across the centre. The card read "In remembrance of the service to his adopted country of Private James Francis Co. A 69th NY Infantry and the 160,000 Union and 40,000 Confederate soldiers from these shores who sacrificed and served 1861-1865 during the American Civil War. Remembered by the Minstrel Boys Living History Group 16th November 2008" Following the wreath laying Mr Adams placed a miniature US national color on the grave. The Color party was ordered to Present Arms and Sgt Reid read the first verse of Theodore O'Hara's poem dated 1847. The Bivouac of the Dead. The muffled drum's sad roll has beat the soldier's last Tattoo; No more on life's parade shall meet that brave and fallen few. On Fame's eternal camping ground their silent tents are spread, And glory guards, with solemn round the bivouac of the dead. Following a moment of reflection, the party was dismissed from the graveside. A number of photo opportunities were staged for the local newspaper and the party was then reformed on the path. Here the Mayor inspected the men and spoke with each one present. The Color Party under the command of Corporal Miller then marched off and paraded to the main cemetery gates. Lt Robinson addressed the men thanking them for their participation. The party was finally ordered to break ranks. Minstrel Boys on parade were: Cameron Robinson (OC) Colin Reid (Sgt) Tadgh Honan (National Colour Bearer) Frank O' Deorain (Regimental Colour Bearer) Ian Miller (Corporal) Noel McGillian (Escort) John Mason (Escort) Plus two members of the Wartime Living History Association: Gavin McQuaid (Escort) Paul Malone (Escort) |
