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#OnThisDay 1945 Japan surrendered, bringing WW2 to an end. However, for Tommy Fisher from Newtowngore, Leitrim in a POW camp in Japan, it wasn’t until the 28th August that they found out the war was over when leaflets were dropped by US planes.

#OnThisDay 1917 Michael O’Rourke, from Limerick ended three days of unceasing work as a stretcher-bearer, carrying in wounded & bringing medical assistance to those in No-Man’s Land under fire. For this selfless actions, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

#OnThisDay 1814 Mary O’Connell/Sister Anthony, AKA the ‘Angel of the Battlefield’ was born in Limerick. Sister Anthony invented battlefield triage during the American Civil War which saved countless lives during the conflict. Her methods are still used today.

#OnThisDay 1649 Oliver Cromwell landed in Ringsend, Dublin at the head of large flotilla of 35 ships with another 77 to follow. Cromwell, as commander marched his massive army of men, horses, artillery & money to capture the town of Drogheda.

#OnThisDay 1599 Hugh O’Donnell’s men attack & rout an English army at the Battle of Curlew Pass outside Boyle, Roscommon. His 160 Galloglas warriors charged; “Like hounds slipped from the leash”. Three English leaders Radcliffe, Clifford & Cosby were killed.