We’ll never forget Norman and James Stronge – father and son killed by IRA

I remember well the ghastly double murder of Sir Norman Stronge and his son, Major James Stronge, exactly 40 years ago yesterday.
By The Newsroom
Published 22nd Jan 2021, 11:08 BST
Sir Norman StrongeSir Norman Stronge
Sir Norman Stronge

This vile deed had a very profound effect on the area’s Unionist community, which was of course the intent of the cowardly IRA gang responsible.

The Stronge family were much loved and respected throughout Co Armagh and in particular Sir Norman, who as a distinguished holder of the Military Cross, had also enjoyed a long and successful political career – which was followed by his son James.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Their murders were a deeply wicked and dastardly crime along with the destruction of their ancestral family home, Tynan Abbey, which further angered and horrified the Unionist community.

Letter to the editorLetter to the editor
Letter to the editor

Personally, I’ve always been struck by the bravery of both father and son on that awful night when they both realised the extent of the attack on their lives. I believe James Stronge could probably have made his escape, but instead, he chose to remain with his elderly and frail father to await the cruel assassination of them both in the library of their beloved home.

This dedication to his father and raw courage should never be forgotten.

Anyone with a shred of decency or humanity could not fail to be deeply shocked and appalled at the cruel murders of a distinguished elderly gentleman and his courageous son.

They’ll always be remembered.

Danny Kennedy, UUP chairman

——— ———

A message from the Editor:

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our advertisers — and consequently the revenue we receive — we are more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription.

Subscribe to newsletter.co.uk and enjoy unlimited access to the best Northern Ireland and UK news and information online and on our app. With a digital subscription, you can read more than 5 articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Visit https://www.newsletter.co.uk/subscriptions now to sign up.

Our journalism costs money and we rely on advertising, print and digital revenues to help to support them. By supporting us, we are able to support you in providing trusted, fact-checked content for this website.

Alistair Bushe

Editor

Related topics:IRADanny Kennedy