A solemn military funeral was held on Friday afternoon to honour the memory of Drummer O’Connor, a member of the 5th Battalion of the Royal Munster Fusiliers. The procession proceeded from the military infirmary at New Barracks to the final resting place at Mount St. Laurence Cemetery. The funeral procession was attended by a significant gathering of civilians who came to pay their respects.

The coffin was draped in the Union Jack, with the deceased soldier’s busby and side arms placed upon it. The casket was carried atop a gun carriage, a customary practice for military funerals. The band of the Northumberland Fusiliers played sombre funeral dirges as the procession made its way to the cemetery. A group of the same regiment fired a salute over the grave, paying their final respects to their fallen comrade.

Members of the Royal Munster Fusiliers’ permanent staff acted as pallbearers, and a contingent from the Limerick City Royal Garrison Artillery was also present to honour Drummer O’Connor’s memory. The graveside service was conducted by the Reverend Father Devane from St. Michael’s, who offered his blessings and conducted the solemn proceedings.

This military funeral served as a testament to the respect and honour afforded to those who serve their country in uniform, reflecting the unity and solemnity of such occasions.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 05 December 1905