Omagh acknowledged for ‘Compassion in a Crisis’

The Strule Arts Centre recently hosted a historical event delving into the town’s extraordinary role during World War II. Presented by Dr. Johnny Hamill, “Compassion in a Crisis” explored the experiences of evacuees who sought refuge in Omagh and the remarkable generosity shown by its residents.

History was brought to life through narrated letters from evacuee children, voiced by local students, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of Operation Hiram, a wartime evacuation initiative. The powerful evening highlighted stories of resilience, community spirit, and the enduring bonds forged during a time of unprecedented crisis.

As the Battle of Britain raged and the threat of invasion loomed over the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland’s government took action to safeguard its youngest citizens through Operation Hiram. The plan called for relocating 50,000 schoolchildren from Belfast to safer, rural areas, including Omagh. Over the course of 7th and 8th July 1940, several families arrived in Omagh as part of this carefully coordinated effort. Local officials and volunteers in Omagh had made meticulous preparations to integrate these evacuees seamlessly into the community, providing shelter, supplies, and support.

However, fewer families arrived than had been anticipated, and many of those who did soon returned to Belfast as the perceived threat diminished. That complacency was short-lived, shattered in April 1941 when relentless air raids devastated Belfast. Fleeing the destruction, hundreds of families sought refuge in Omagh, arriving unannounced and with few possessions. The influx strained Omagh’s resources, overwhelming food supplies, clothing stores, and essential services. Yet, the town rallied in an extraordinary show of community spirit and generosity.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor John McClaughry said,

‘The story of Omagh’s compassion during one of the darkest times in history is a testament to the strength and generosity of our district.

The Council is committed to valuing and enriching our heritage and making accessible the rich, diverse, natural, built and cultural heritage of our district. This event provided an opportunity to reflect on our shared history but also to celebrate the enduring spirit of community that defines Omagh to this day.’

Dr. Hamill recounted these stories of resilience, detailing how Omagh became a “home from home” in a time of unprecedented crisis. The event also marked the 80th anniversary of the end of Operation Hiram in 1944, commemorating the bonds formed between Omagh and Belfast and honouring the town’s legacy of kindness toward strangers in need.