One of the most effecting songs I've ever heard. Sung by Mary, Cara's older sister and singer of the famous band "Déanta".

Many thanks to Sam Starrett from Songshed for his assistance!

From the album "BOYS OF THE ISLAND" John Condon was the youngest soldier to be killed in the Great War 1914-18 He was just 14 years old.

"John Condon"
Words & Music: R.Laird/S.Starrett/T.McRory ©2002
Publisher: Bardis Music

Just a day, another day beneath the Belgian sun
past grave on grave row on row until I see the name John Condon..........
carved in stone with harp and crown, little crosses in the ground
and standing there, my silent prayer is for a boy who died a soldier

wee lad who'll not grow old
heroes that don’t come home
here they lie in Belgian fields
and Picardy

Just a recruit, in soldiers boots, from Ireland's shores to here
this living hell, this Poelkappele, where young men fell...
Like you, John Condon............
and all around, the harp and crown, the crosses in the ground
stand up in proof, the bitter truth, the waste of youth! ...that lies forgotten

wee lad who'll not grow old
heroes that don’t come home
here they lie in Belgian fields
and Picardy

Now tell me John!... before I go on, what did you come here for
with Ireland's bold, your life untold! 14 years old!
to die a soldier?
and all around, the harp and crown, the crosses in the ground
what cause was served....................?
so undeserved.....................!

heroes that dont come home
sing out for all their souls
here they lie in Belgian fields
and Picardy

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