The Ulster Volunteers 1913

THE ULSTER VOLUNTEERS 1913

A standard snaps in the winter air
There’s a strident bugle call
No time to chatter or concur
Nor waiver or forestall
With backs like rods and shoulders square
And proud heads held on high
A militia then beyond compare
The Volunteers march by.

Formed by need and requisite
To face Erin’s shameful ruse
To stand as one and hold the gun
The option theirs to choose
From country lanes and streets so poor
To men of great renown
In circumstance this one last chance
To fight and serve the Crown.

From all compass points and in between
They rallied to the shout
They signed in blood and swore they would
Drive disloyal rebels out
Defiant lines in treacherous times
Our first rank of attack
Bold men avowed to be allowed
To force dissenters back.

With colours raised and orders gave
With resolve and fortitude
With strength of mind and purpose
Their business to conclude
To set in stone a promise
That will last a hundred years
Don’t forget but remember yet
The Ulster Volunteers.

Beano