A Co Donegal marching band is to mark the loss of three loved ones in tragic circumstances in a poignant ceremony on New York’s Brooklyn Bridge this Sunday.
Cloughaneely Band was honoured to receive an invitation from The Donegal Association in New York to participate in the city’s prestigious St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Monday next.
But little did they know that so much tragedy was to beset their members in a few short weeks.
The band was rocked in February when Enya McMurrough, aged just 13, and daughter of band member of Fionnuala, passed away suddenly.
The tightly-knit group were to be shaken again following the recent tragic car crash in Gortahork which claimed the lives of Jamie Diver and Shaun Martin McClafferty.
The young men’s mothers Roise and Sharon are both proud members of the band also.
As part of their trip, the band will take a special moment to remember Enya, Jamie, and Shaun Martin, three cherished children whose loss has left an unimaginable void with their loss deeply felt by all.
At sunrise on Sunday morning, the band will gather on Brooklyn Bridge to honour the memories of these three beautiful children. In silence, and in love, they will stand together as one, ensuring that Enya, Jamie, and Shaun are forever part of their journey.
“As Cloughaneely Senior Band marches down Fifth Avenue on St. Patrick’s Day, they will do so with immense pride—not just for their parish, community, county, and country, but for the children they carry in their hearts.
“United in strength, love, and memory, they look forward to showcasing Donegal’s rich musical heritage on a global platform.
“We cannot begin to express our gratitude for the overwhelming support and generosity we have received from our community,” said Laura Barrett, chairperson of the band.
A group of 32 band members, accompanied by supporters and family, will depart from Dublin Airport on Saturday, 15th March, to take part in the historic event.
This incredible opportunity will see the band proudly represent the parish of Cloich Cheann Fhaola on an international stage, performing for an estimated two million spectators along Fifth Avenue, with a further 30 million watching the broadcast.
The funds raised through their various fundraising efforts are being used solely for equipment, uniforms, travel, and transfers with each band member has covering their own flights and accommodation costs for the trip.
At Masses on Sunday Fr.Donnchadh O’ Baoil wished the band well on their trip on behalf of the community.
“Although this trip will be difficult for our band, we will undertake it with strength, support, and love for everyone. We would like to thank everyone, our family, friends and community for everything”
“We wish the band the very best of luck as they represent Donegal in New York,” added chairperson Laura Barrett.
