Kevin Coen memorial event at Riverstown
The Kevin Coen Commemoration Committee has announced a number of events to be held on Sunday 24th January in memory of Riverstown Republican Kevin Coen. There will firstly be a wreath laying ceremony at 11.30pm by the Yellow and Black Bridge, Rusheen, Riverstown.
Local councillor Martin Baker will deliver the oration here. This will be followed at 12.00pm by the main commemoration at Kevin Coen's graveside in Sooey Cemetery. Councillor Jane Suffin from Boyle Town Council will address the crowd here.
Thomas Healy from the Commemoration Committee is encouraging people to attend both of these events.
"It is hard to believe that the death of Kevin Coen occurred thirty five years ago this month. Volunteer Kevin Coen, who was attached to the Southern Command of the Irish Republican Army, lost his life during a gun battle with the British Army at Cassidy's Cross on the Fermanagh border on 20th January 1975. His death made a lasting impression on people through the region. Although many of us on the Committee were only children when he died we have been inspired by his example of selflessness and belief in Republican principles."
"Thankfully the conflict which ended Kevin's life has come to an end. However, without his sacrifice we would not now have institutions operated on the basis of power sharing government and equality in the six counties," said Mr. Healy.
