Thomas Plunkett was born in County Mayo in 1840.  His parents emigrated to the United States in 1844 and settled in West Boylston, Massachusetts.  When the American Civil War broke out, young Plunkett was working in a local shoe factory.  Immediately answering the call of his adopted country, Plunkett enlisted in Company E of the 21st Massachusetts as a private. … [Read more...] about Sergeant Thomas Plunkett, “Don’t let (the Flag) Fall Boys”

When this year’s Rockland County St. Patrick’s Day Parade proceeds down Central Avenue in Pearl River, it will be led by Marine Corps veteran Francis T. Duffy.   Frank was awarded the Silver Star for “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity” in a battle where Admiral Nimitz noted that “Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue” indicates the high bar that Frank’s courage met … [Read more...] about The Irish Marines

Since the ancient past, societies have honored athletes.  Athletic competition may have developed out of pragmatic concerns such as training warriors, but it was soon realized that certain individuals were gifted with exceptional talents.  In the Ancient Olympic Games winning competitors were awarded Olive Wreaths and honored as human incarnations of Apollo; in modern … [Read more...] about The Sheas, Three Generations of Winter Olympics Greatness

We have all seen the beautiful tradition of placing candles in the windows at Christmas time. This tradition of placing candles in the windows of homes during the Christmas season was brought to America by Irish immigrants in the 19th century. However, beyond mere decoration as Irish Americans these Christmas candles have a special significance. They reflect the fortitude and … [Read more...] about A Christmas Candle in the Window