In a poignant display of camaraderie and sacrifice, Sergeant P. J. Tierney of the 1st Battalion, Royal Munster Fusiliers, has penned a touching letter to the father of Private P. O’Grady from Limerick. The letter, received amidst the sombre backdrop of war, reveals the gallant actions of the young soldier and the solemn duty carried out by his comrades.

Private O’Grady, hailed as a hero by Sergeant Tierney, met his untimely demise on the battlefield in the Dardanelles on the 22nd ult. Displaying unwavering courage, O’Grady was engaged in the noble act of carrying a wounded comrade to safety when he was struck by shrapnel. Despite the valiant efforts of his fellow soldiers, O’Grady succumbed to his injuries, succumbing to the loss of blood shortly thereafter.

Sergeant Tierney’s heartfelt letter not only serves as a testament to the bravery displayed by Private O’Grady but also offers solace to his grieving family. Expressing a solemn vow of remembrance and retribution, Tierney assures O’Grady’s father that his son’s sacrifice will not be forgotten. “You can rest assured that the death of your son on the battlefield of this peninsula will be avenged a thousand times over,” writes Tierney.

The letter encapsulates the profound bond forged amidst the chaos of war, illustrating the unwavering resolve of soldiers in the face of adversity. Despite the heavy toll exacted upon their regiment, Tierney highlights the indomitable spirit of the Irish soldiers, reaffirming their commitment to defend their comrades and uphold their honour against all odds.

As the echoes of war reverberate across distant shores, the legacy of Private O’Grady stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who serve their country with unwavering courage and devotion.

Dublin Daily Express – Monday 20 September 1915