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For the first time in over ninety years the residents of Ashbury, Roscrea, gathered on Wednesday last to host a special service of remembrance for those who fought in the two world wars. The ceremony took place in the GAA Pavilion and was appropriately timed to tie in with the annual “Armistice Day” commemorations.
The service was organised by members of the “Ashbury Residents Association” who wanted to honour all those who fought in the great wars. Chairman, Mr Tommy Murphy extended a warm welcome to all those present, especially to Mr John Moloney, one of the few surviving service men from the area who was a corporal in the Irish Guards. John’s two brothers Tommie and Gussie also fought and Tommie was killed in action.
The service was conducted by both the Rev. Father Lorcan Kenny and the Rev. Thomas M. Kingston. Mary Dollard read the scripture lesson and Niamh McNamara and Katie Fletcher, led the prayers. It is hoped that the service will have set a precedent and that it will turn into an annual occasion in remembrance of those who played an extremely important part in Irish History.
Indeed it is worth noting that only last week, Chris Percival publicly announced his intentions to write a book about Roscrea’s veterans of the two world wars. His grandfather Jack Moyney who lived in Ashbury was one of very few to earn a Victoria Cross for bravery in World War 1.Chris Percival can be contacted at 086 8981604.
After the service on Wednesday last, refreshments were served, affording those present an opportunity to chat in an informal setting. Ashbury is an area in Roscrea that is rich in tradition with people that have served in the national army and international armies over the last hundred years. It is perhaps fitting that as we approach 2014 and the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of World War 1 that the Ashbury Residents Association have taken the initiative to ensure that we never forget those who served their country and helped ensure the freedoms and democracy that we enjoy today.
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