Annual Ceremony of Remembrance and Wreath Laying – Irish National War Memorial Gardens
Photographs by Ken Mooney and Wesley Bourke
The annual ceremony of commemoration and wreath-laying at the Irish National War Memorial Gardens at Islandbridge is arranged and led by the Royal British Legion Republic of Ireland District with the co-operation and assistance of the Irish State. This major Battle of the Somme anniversary event commemorates those who lost their lives in the two World Wars, in particular the estimated 60,000 Irish men and women from all parts of the Ireland who served and died in those conflicts. Representation from all parts and traditions of the Island of Ireland is a key feature.
The ceremony commenced at 12.30 pm with a colourful parade of the standards of Royal British Legion, regimental, ex-services organisations and commemorative associations. This was followed by an ecumenical service of remembrance, recitals and music and the laying of official wreaths by government and civic leaders from Ireland and Northern Ireland, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Service and veterans’ representatives.
Music was provided jointly by bands from the 1st Brigade of the Irish Defence Forces and the Royal Irish Regiment.
Some special guests this year include: Lt. Gen. James Bashall (National President) & Mrs Bashall, Mr Charles Byrne Director General TRBL and Maj. Gen. David Jolliffe IEST.