While the rest of Europe plunged into darkness with die fall of the Roman Empire, the light of learning and western civilization was kept flickering in Ireland, preserved in the monasteries established by the followers of St. Patrick. However, it would only be a matter of time before the "light" attracted the unwanted attention of those more interested in plunder than learning. … [Read more...] about Clontarf 1014
History
A Tale of Two Brothers :Robert and Thomas Addis Emmet
On the surface, the brothers Thomas Addis Emmet and Robert Emmet were the most unlikely of revolutionaries. They were born (Thomas Addis 1764, Robert 1778) into an affluent family of Ireland's Protestant ascendency. Their father was the State Physician of Ireland; firmly positioning the family as members of the British establishment. Yet the spirit of the enlightenment ran … [Read more...] about A Tale of Two Brothers :Robert and Thomas Addis Emmet
Lt. Michael Murphy, the Medal of Honor Awardee Behind “Lone Survivor”
Lt. Michael P. Murphy was born May 7, 1976 in Smithtown, N.Y into a family where Irish traditions and the virtues of public service ran strong. His paternal grandfather was the quintessential âIrish Americanâ, being literally born on the boat taking his family from Ireland to a new life in America. Murphy's grandfather would later serve as a member of the Fighting 69th in World … [Read more...] about Lt. Michael Murphy, the Medal of Honor Awardee Behind “Lone Survivor”
Fr.Peter Whelan, the Angel of Andersonville
At this joyous time of year, our hearts arefilled with the thoughts of âPeace on Earthâand âGood Will to Menâ that inspire us toacts of charity and kindness. However, ofhow many people can it be said that theymaintained in their hearts true âGoodWill to Menâ when âPeace on Earthâwas replaced by the insanity of war, evengoing so far as to âLove thy neighborâirrespective of what … [Read more...] about Fr.Peter Whelan, the Angel of Andersonville
Major Patrick Brady, âFaith Under Fireâ
During the Vietnam War, a soldier wounded on the battlefield had a better chance of survival than if he had been injured as a civilian in a car crash back home in the states. This remarkable statistic is due to the courage and dedication of the pilots and crews of the aeromedical helicopter evacuation unit, radio call sign âDust Offâ. A four man crew of a pilot, copilot, medic … [Read more...] about Major Patrick Brady, âFaith Under Fireâ