Last November 24th was the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President of the United States John F. Kennedy. Many people took a moment on this anniversary to remember where they were when they heard the news.

We recently received an email from Seamus Hora from County Mayo in response to our blog post. He sent along a wonderful poem he wrote describing “where I was when I learned of the sad news of the tragic passing of President J F Kennedy.”

Where Were You

 

In my mind I see him clearly

As he stood inside the door

We sat and gazed in silence

At the sad news that he bore.

 

We all were fascinated

By this man from USA

Honoured by a visit.

From charismatic JFK

 

The worlds greatest speaker

Simple words-But oh so true.

For a country to be proud of

You must make an effort too.

 

He promised as he left us,

He would return again someday

But a sniper from a window

Sadly had the final say.

 

We had no television

But felt that we were there

For coverage was provided

By the great Michael O Hehir

 

I was playing bingo

The clock had just struck ten

The gambling house Mulrennans

The bearer; Our late friend Eamon Quinn

 

by: Seamus Hora

Seamus Hora was born in Gorthaganny, County Roscommon. He has been employed by same company, Delaneys Ltd in Ballyhaunis, County Mayo, for 44 years. He has lived in Ballyhaunis for the past 20 years. Seamus is married to Rosaleen and the couple has one daughter, Sandra. Seamus only recently started to write poetry. and he bases his poems on his life experience. He values feedback and would like to hear what people think of his poem. Please leave a comment!

Thank you, Seamus, for sharing your poem! Stay tuned to the blog for my profile of Monica Wood, the author of the beautiful memoir, When We Were the Kennedys, later this month. You will also have the chance to win a copy of the book!