The United Nations Veterans' Association (Post 25) do a great honouring the men who gave such sterling service in places such as the Congo and Lebanon. Regretably, many of these soldiers never returned from foreign shores. A well maintained memorial wall close to the now closed Fitzgerald Camp in Fermoy, listing those lost in action, is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices involved with military service.

On Saturday, June 13th last, Post 25 members organised a religious service and wreath laying ceremony adjacent to Fitzgerald Camp, Fermoy. Public representatives, high ranking officers and members of the public attended this solemn event.

The prayer ceremony was conducted by Fr. P.J. O'Driscoll and the Church of Ireland's Revd. Eileen Cremin. Guests of honour included, Minister for State, Sean Sherlock, Cllr, Kevin O'Keeffe, deputising for the Mayor of Co. Cork and Capt. Denise Burke representing G.O.C. 1 Brigade. Other public representatives in attendance included:Deputy Sandra McLellan (SF), Cllr. Frank O'Flynn (FF), Cllr. Kay Dawson (FG), Cllr. June Murphy (SF) and Cllr. Noel McCarthy (Lab).

Speaking at the event, Sean Sherlock said members of the Irish Defence Forces were continuing a tradition of UN service started by many of those on the camp's memorial wall. He went on to say the professionalism, tact and discipline of Irish soliders was recognised the world over.

Deputy Sherlock was one of several to lay wreaths. Music for the ceremony was provided by members of Fermoy Concert Band and piper, Samantha Costigan. Sandra Jackson and Colm Shinnick performed the Last Post - the MC was Des Keegan (Post 25).

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