A Celebration of the life of Pte. Terence Joseph McMahon 1944-1997

On Saturday July 15th Balbriggan & District Historical Society will host a Commemoration in honour of Terence Mc Mahon from Balbriggan who took part in the Siege of Jadotville in the Congo in 1961. The heroic efforts of the 156 soldiers of the 35th Battalion UN forces who held out against an opposition force of 3000 has only recently been acknowledged. We are expecting a huge attendance at this event where we will be unveiling a plaque in his honour.

The day will commence with a Commemorative Mass at St. Peter & Paul's Church at 11.30. Celebrant Fr. Eugene Taaffe PP assisted by Fr. Liam Cuffe, son of Jadotville veteran Sgt Geoffrey Cuffe. Irish United Nations Veterans Association Colour party in attendance.

After Mass there will be a parade to George's Square in the company of Mc Mahon family members, St. Patrick's Brass & Reed Band, Community Groups and Jadotville Veterans.

Following speeches a Commemorative Plaque will be unveiled by Mayor of Fingal Cllr Mary McCamley with Irish Defence Forces in attendance.

Balbriggan & District Historical Society would like to acknowledge the generous support for this project from Fingal County Council and Heritage Officer Gerry Clabby.

If you are not familiar with the story of the Siege of Jadotville check out the film The Siege of Jadotville on Netflix which tells the story. Or check out the many links on YouTube that show actual footage or interviews in relation to the Siege.

Some samples: HERE Irish Troops in the Congo HERE

The Siege of Jadotville Trailer HERE

Looking forward to seeing you on the day,

Le gach dea-ghuí

Bernie Kelly

PRO

Balbriggan & District Historical Society

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BalbrigganHistoricalSociety/

Twitter: @BalbrigganHist

Email Balbrigganhistsoc@gmail.com