THE ANNUAL PAT WALSH MEMORIAL PARADE - took place in Dunamaggan last Sunday, Easter Sunday. The Organisation of National Ex-servicemen formed a colour party at the 11 a.m. mass and Denis Ryan was the piper. After mass the Parade of the Reserve Defence Forces, National Ex-servicemen, political leaders, members of the local organising committee and the Kells Scouts paraded to the Pat Walsh Monument. Committee Chairperson, Ned Kirwan, thanked the large attendance for their presence on such a bitterly cold afternoon. He welcomed all who were present especially guest speaker, John McGuinness, T.D., Cllrs. Tom Maher, Matt Doran and Dr. Pat Crowley who also addressed the gathering. A welcome was also extended to those from Callan and Tullaroan who were present. Ray Cody laid a wreath at the monument. John McGuinness, T.D gave a very uplifting address in which he linked the values enshrined in the 1916 Proclamation as values and challenges which are very relevant to today. He stressed the contribution which Pat Walsh made to his local community. He was a very active member of the Glory Rovers G.A.A. club and an active referee. He was a real leader and trained members of the local community and led them in the War of Independence. John McGuinness stressed the importance of valuing the values of those who gave us the freedom we now enjoy but challenged those present not to take it for granted. The inspiration of Pat Walsh is, he stated, serving the need of one’s community irrespective of personal cost. Pat Walsh gave his life in pursuit of his aims. He said that the challenge for each one is to serve community and country so as to better and enhance life for all. Dr. Pat Crowley M.C.C. again reminded those gathered of the anniversary in 2014 of Ireland’s freedom which was achieved at the Battle of Clontarf by Brian Boru, a freedom, which he stated lasted for 150 years. He stressed the importance of valuing and respecting our freedom as for almost 750 years the country did not enjoy freedom until it was again
