A unique event is to take place in Castlebar on February 23 next when a presentation is made on the Battle of Jadotville from the “Pen of Commandant Pat Quinlan” (Officer Commanding the Irish Troops at Jadotville in the Congo in 1961 ), as told by his son, Commandant Leo Quinlan.
The Battle of Jadotville was the largest military action, carried out by the Irish Army against a foreign army, since the formation of the Irish State, in which 155 Irish soldiers fought 3500 enemy soldiers – and survived.
The Power Point Presentation (with original photographs from the event ) covers the six months tour of duty by the Irish Company and covers all major activities of the Company with particular focus on the Battle of Jadotville and subsequent period as POW’s.
During the presentation the reasons for the survival of the Irish Company are identified as exceptional Leadership (at all levels ), Training, High Level of Military Skills, Respect (two way ), Trust, Discipline, Empowerment, High Morale, Teamwork and Comradeship. Such a high level of military and personal skills was extraordinary, given the average age of the Irish soldiers was 18.5 years while two soldiers were just 15 years old.
Included also in the presentation is the story of the families at home in Ireland and their fears, stresses, reactions, happiness etc as the events in Jadotville unfolded.
The aftermath of Jadotville and its effect on veterans and families ends the presentation.
The presentation by Commandant Leo Quinlan will take place in Bridge St, Castlebar on February 23 at 8pm, all welcome.
