Profile of Volunteer Patrick "Patsy" Hughes

Patrick (better known as Patsy) was born on the Quarter Road, Camloch, on 1st October 1937 and was reared on the Derramore Road, Bessbrook. His parents Michael and Elizabeth had five other children: Michael, William, Richard, Lilian and Philomena.

At sixteen, Patsy joined the British Army. He met his wife to be, Theresa Halligan, originally from Caledon in county Tyrone, at a dance in Armagh and a year later were married. Patsy and his young wife then spent time in postings around the world including Germany, North Africa and Kenya. They had seven children: Michael (IRA Volunteer), Kate, Elizabeth, John, Angela, Lorraine and Patricia. After nine long years in the British army, Patsy decided to leave for the sake of his young family. They lived in the pre-fabs on the Derramore Road for seven years before moving to Main Avenue, Derrybeg Park. As the troubles flared up, Patsy got involved in the local vigilante group for the protection of his family and local community. As an ex- British soldier, Patsy was disgusted by the actions of the British Army who were now occupying his beloved country. Patsy joined the ranks of Óglaigh na hÉireann to fight for his countries freedom. His love of animals, gardening and DIY was his cover for involvement in the Irish Republican Army. His military knowledge and experience proved invaluable to his comrades.

In an action all too typical of Patsy’s character, on Tuesday 22nd August 1972, Patsy volunteered to take the place of another volunteer and was tragically killed in an accidental explosion on the Dublin Road Newry. Two other IRA volunteers, Oliver Rowntree and Noel Madden, were killed alongside Patsy. The community was shocked not only at Patsy’s death but to learn of his involvement with Óglaigh na hÉireann. Patsy never once aroused the suspicion of anyone in regards to him being an active volunteer of the IRA. Patsy was a dedicated and committed member of Óglaigh na hÉireann and shared his Republican beliefs between a few of his comrades. His memory has instilled confidence and courage in IRA units ever since.

Volunteer Patsy Hughes is remembered with pride by his beloved family, friends and comrades in the Republican Movement.