Great War group plans Curragh walk

A viewing of the trench system used on the Curragh to train soldiers for World War 1 is being arranged by the Kilcullen Great War Commemoration Group, writes Brian Byrne.

It will be led by Colonel (Retd) Des Travers, who, at last night's meeting of the Group, outlined the differences between the Curragh system and the actual ones in Flanders. The walk is provisionally planned for the afternoon of May 11.

Librarian Julie O'Donoghue brought a number of books relating to WW1 which she has arranged to be loaned to the Group, and also read extracts from the Minutes Book of the Temperance Society of St Patrick's Church in Carnalway, with details of fundraising events for the soldiers serving in the war.

Frank Mitchell brought along a 'Widow's Penny' commemorative plaque, of which over 1m were issued after the war to next of kin of military personnel who died in the conflict. It was found in the effects of the late Paddy Mitchell, and was issued to the family of one Cpl James Brady, who served with the 1st Royal Dragoons and was killed at Gallipoli. A photograph of Cpl Brady which was with the plaque shows a man who looks very strongly like a Mitchell, but Frank hasn't yet established the exact kinship.

The meeting discussed more details of the commemorative event in planning for August. Julie read out a letter from President Higgins's office, extending his regrets at not being able to accept an invitation to the event due to a very busy schedule of commitments.