United States Army troops based in Northern Ireland took part in many sporting activities to keep fit and boost morale during World War Two. They brought their games of American Football and Baseball with them but also took part in Soccer and Boxing.
In Co. Tyrone, a young 10-year-old boy called Barney Eastwood remembered watching bouts between American troops. Peering betwen the black boots and khaki uniforms, he watched soldiers go toe-to-toe in the ring at Killymoon Camp, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone. Barney would go on to be a world-famous boxing promoter, most known for his work with the Clones Cyclone Barry McGuigan.
There were some good fighters among them, some of them had been pros and they used to hold these tournaments between themselves. I was always interested in it from there on.
Barney Eastwood, Boxing Promoter, Interviewed by the Irish News in January 2020.