Dear Editor,
For many years the 18th INF BN FCA helped play a prominent role in the history of the Defence Forces, particularly during the turbulent history of our brethren in Northern Ireland. Thankfully, with the advent of the peace process that conflict has ceased to exist and the long-term prospects of the people look all the brighter.
The ensuing peace process and the subsequent reorganising of the Defence Forces has caused a drastic reduction in serving members, with the result that many ex-members have dispersed widely and consequently have lost touch with each other.
As a former PDF member of the unit and having spent 12 memorable years from 1984 to 1996 with the unit, I feel that a grand reunion is overdue. In this regard I have spoken to most veterans and ex-members and all are looking forward to such an event, particularly a man of the calibre of one legend Tiny Kelly, A-Coy Westport who wholeheartedly endorses such an event.
In this regard I have been fortunate that, with the excellent staff and management of the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport, I have held two excellent reunions of members of A-Coy who served in Lebanon under the leadership of Pat McGreal after 25 years, and recently one with my old unit, second field Signal Coy Dublin where people who had not seen each other for 40 to 50 years got together again.
Winning the Lotto or Mayo winning Sam would only top these events. It is subsequently no surprise that we intend to go for the hat-trick with a grand reunion date set for Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011.
Further details can be obtained from myself on 087 695 3102 or from my PDF cadre members in Westport, Castlebar, Swinford, and Ballina.
Thanking you,
Yours in anticipation,
John Durcan Ex Cqms.
