Kilkenny stories to remember European Victory - City to host renowned local historian

Kilkenny Archaeological Society invites you to: Kilkenny Connections with the 2nd World War - Eight stories 80 years on, a lecture by historian Larry Scallan

As we approach the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe day, it is fitting that we have a look at and relate a number of the many stories that involve Kilkenny women and men from this often-overlooked part of our social and military history and heritage.

There are records of a Kilkenny born Australian dairy farmer, RAF pilots and gunners a submariner, military nurses and Chaplins.  As well as our own local security forces 1939/45. All gave some and some gave all.

The lecture takes place in Rothe House on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, starting at 8pm. Admission €8 for members,€10 for non-members.

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Comdt. Larry Scallan is a former Commandant who joined the Irish defence forces in 1988 and served in various capacities in Ireland, Europe, and with the United Nations in Kosovo and Lebanon. He finished his military career as the Commanding Officer, Support Company, 3rd Infantry Battalion at James Stephens Barracks in Kilkenny, where he still maintains contact by hosting regular tours of the barracks, studying its history and lecturing.

Scallan is also a freelance tour guide for Kilkenny Military Heritage Tours, specializing in bespoke and group walking tours around Kilkenny Medieval City, with a focus on the Irish revolutionary period 1860-1923 and Irish participation in World War.