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The memory of two Kilkeel men who were awarded Victoria Crosses will be commemorated this Sunday (10-5-98) when their names are placed on the war memorial at Mourne Presbyterian Church, the only war memorial in Kilkeel, at the request of the British Legion.
Private Robert Scott and Company Sergeant Major Robert Hannah both have their roots in the Co Down town and indeed members of their families still live in the area.
Private Scott, later Regimental Quarter Master Sergeant, joined the Manchester Regiment in 1895 and saw action in the Boer War at Ladysmith. On 5 January 1900 he was one of 16 soldiers who took up defensive positions at Caesar's Camp. Private Scott and one other survivor held off the enemy for 15 hours and both were awarded VC's for their actions.
Company Sergeant Major Hannah, later Lieutenant, was a member of the 29th Vancouver Battalion. In 1917, during an attack at Lens, France, Hannah took charge after his officers were killed or injured and led a successful attack on a German machine gun position. For his tremendous bravery Hannah was awarded a VC. He returned to Kilkeel on March 2 1918 to a heroes welcome.
Following a parade from the town to Mourne Presbyterian Church, a ceremony will take place at the memorial at 2.45pm followed by a service in the church at 3.00pm. It is expected that visitors from both Manchester and Canada will attend the commemorations.
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