Three brave brothers went to war - but only one came home

THIS is a story of bravery, sacrifice and legacy.

In conjunction with the erection of memorial plaques in Randalstown’s War Memorial Garden, this week we look back at the remarkable story of the McVeigh brothers - three young men who answered the call to serve during World War I.

Their story, painstakingly researched by their relative Ciara Mackenzie, unveils a tale of dedication, sacrifice, and brotherly courage.

The McVeigh brothers - James, John, and Patrick - were young men from Randalstown who deeply believed in serving their country.

Their decision to enlist in the war was driven by a sense of duty and patriotism, a commitment that would change the course of their lives forever.

James McVeigh, the eldest - affectionately nicknamed ‘The Skipper’ - joined the Royal Navy in 1915.

Initially stationed in Larne, he served throughout the entirety of World War I.

Unlike his brothers, James survived the war and returned home, where he went on to marry and raise a large family.

His service was a source of pride, and his safe return was a rare joy amidst the losses his family endured.

So what of his brothers?

Private John McVeigh joined the Connaught Rangers in 1915. He was deployed to both France and Iraq, serving bravely with his battalion.

Tragically, John succumbed to typhus on October 22, 1916, at just 23-years-old. His final resting place is the Basra War Cemetery.

Patrick, the youngest, saw some of the most intense action of the war.

Enlisting in 1915 with the Royal Irish Fusiliers, he first served with the 6th Battalion in Gallipoli, where he was wounded by shrapnel.

Undeterred, he returned to duty and was reassigned to the 8th Battalion, fighting in France. His resilience was evident when he was wounded again, this time severely, and was sent to England for treatment.

Once healed, Patrick insisted on returning to his regiment.

On February 11, 1918, Patrick was assigned to the 1st Battalion, stationed on the front lines.

Just weeks later, on March 21, 1918, the German Spring Offensive began. His regiment faced relentless artillery fire, gas attacks, and an overwhelming enemy assault.

Amidst the chaos, Patrick managed to escape but was captured two days later, on March 23. He was taken to Limburg POW camp, where he endured gruelling conditions and forced labour.

After contracting dysentery, he was transferred to Wittenberg POW camp, where he suffered for three weeks before succumbing to the disease on June 14, 1918, at the age of 23. Patrick is buried in Berlin War Cemetery.

His unwavering commitment to his comrades, his determination to return to the battlefield despite his injuries, and his enduring spirit define him as a true war hero.

Final goodbye

The last time John and Patrick were seen together was at a train station in France in 1915.

Both were in high spirits, eager for the adventure ahead.

Neither could have known that this moment would be their final farewell. Their story is one of youthful optimism, met with the harsh realities of war.

Now the sacrifices of John and Patrick McVeigh have been immortalised with memorial plaques in Randalstown’s War Memorial Garden. This tribute, a testament to their bravery, ensures their legacy will never be forgotten.

Their relative, Ciara Mackenzie, has devoted months to researching their lives, uncovering every detail of their service.

Her journey led her to the Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum in Armagh, where historian Jonathan Maguire (BA Hons, War Studies) provided invaluable insights into Patrick’s war career.

Robin Murray, of the Randalstown branch of the British Legion, played a crucial role in bringing this project to life.

Passionate about preserving the memory of local men who served, Robin worked closely with Ciara to design and install the plaques, ensuring they were a fitting tribute to ‘her boys’.

A special thank you also went to Glen Cinnamon, whose efforts in restoring and preserving the brothers' photographs have been instrumental in keeping their memory alive.

Forever 23

The McVeigh brothers fought with courage, endured unimaginable hardships, and paid the ultimate price for their dedication.

Thanks to Ciara’s determination, their names will forever be etched in history and in the hearts of those who cherish their story.

Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

A special mention in memory of John Letters, who passed away in 2006. A great nephew of Patrick and John he was also very passionate about the two boys and had even travelled to Germany to try and locate the grave of Patrick which he unfortunately did not find.

The War Graves Commissioner sent photos of the grave to John shortly before he passed away which was a great comfort to him.

He researched the boys in detail in a time when online records did not exist. It would undoubtedly mean so much to John that his family have finally managed to tell the story of the brave brothers and give them their place in history in their hometown.