A historian of the Royal Irish Constabulary believes a body of a Black and Tan reported to be dumped in a bog in north Kerry is likely to be one of two policemen who disappeared after being ambushed by the IRA in the county during the War of Independence.
According to Jim Herlihy, author of The Royal Irish Constabulary - A Short History and Genealogical Guide, the body of the Black and Tan in Lixnaw is most likely to be either that of Const Patrick Waters (24), from Spiddal, Co Galway, or Const Ernest Bright (34) from London. "Both went missing on October 31st, 1920, in separate ambushes. They're the only two RIC men killed in Kerry whose bodies were never found, so it's likely to be one or other of them."
Mr Herlihy worked as a historical adviser on the recent film, The Wind that Shakes the Barley. Retired Lixnaw farmer Michael O'Connell (66) first learned of a Black and Tan being buried in Derravrin bog more than 20 years ago and he is convinced of its veracity, as is his neighbour and friend, Brendan Cronin.
"I believe the Tan could have been shot in Tralee - if people didn't like him or had him down as bad job. I believe there were some Tans that were making too friendly with young girls and it could well be one of them. I think a search should be carried out and if a body is found, it should be sent back to England to his relatives if they are traceable. It shouldn't be left in the bog anyway - a bog is no place for a body."
Mr O'Connell and Mr Cronin are both contributors to this Sunday night's Kerry Lore documentary on Radio Kerry, produced by Maurice O'Keeffe, who is convinced of the accuracy of the story.
"Michael pointed out the spot to me. It's marked by a crab apple tree, so it's not a huge area. It should be easy to excavate and, being a bog, clothing should be preserved. It should be possible to identify whoever it is and return the remains to any relatives."
