On Thursday May 9th 2019 , the extended family of Joe Murphy gathered by invitation at City Hall , Cork City for a very special presentation. After many years of campaigning and research the family of the late Joe Murphy headed by Shirley Kelleher were finally awarded the 1917 - 1921 Service Medal with Bar ( for active service ) on behalf of their famous relative who died on hunger strike in 1920.
Joe Murphy 1895 - 1920
Almost a Century after the tragic event , Lord Mayor Mick Finn posthumously awarded the medal to Henry Delaney ( Joe's Nephew ). The Medal was presented on a green velvet cushion and was graciously accepted by the Family members. Shirley Kelleher delivered the keynote acceptance speech as she was joined by family members worldwide for the special occasion. Also present were members of the Togher Historical Association who hope to reawaken the ghost of Togher's forgotten hero to the general public.
Lord Mayor Mick Finn awarding the Medal to Henry Delaney
Henry Delaney and daughter Shirley Kelleher
Shirley Delaney & T.D. Donnchadh O'Laoraigh
Togher Historical Association
with Henry Delaney
Henry Delaney with Dignitaries at City Hall
Shirley Kelleher acceptance speech
The description of the Medal is as follows: A circular medal approximately one and three fifth inches in
diameter bearing on the obverse the Arm of the Four Provinces of
Ireland. In the centre appears a standing figure , facing front ,
depicting a Volunteer , a member of a guerrilla force – termed “ Flying
Column ” – of the period 1917 – 1922 in typical dress ( trench coat and
cap with rifle , revolver and bandoleer ). The word “EIRE” ( meaning
Ireland ) appears horizontally across the centre of the medal in large
letters ( two either side of the figure ). The words “ Cogadh na Saoirse ”
which are translated “ The Fight For Freedom ” appear below. The Bar which is fitted across the ribbon , equal parts black and tan , is " Comrac " which means " Struggle ".
Medal showing front side
Medal showing reverse side
Another surprise lay in store when the Family were given a special presentation of the Defence Forces Medal which is extremely rare and coveted. This was awarded by the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces Rear Admiral Mellet who also posed for photographs.
