PICTURES: Laois United Nations veterans lay wreaths in remembrance of colleagues

A poignant wreath laying took place last Sunday, September 6 in the Memorial Garden, Portlaoise, to pay respect to colleagues and friends of Post 27, the local UN veterans branch.

Former Progressive Democrats politician Cathy Honan was there in memory of her uncle who served in the Congo.

Laois County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald and CEO Michael Rainey, and Gda Inspt Joe Culliton and Sgt Orla Nolan also attended.

The annual ceremony remembers all who are now deceased who served abroad for the United Nations to keep peace in places like the Congo and Lebanon.

Starting with Mass by Msgr John Byrne, Post 27 then paraded to the Memorial Garden for the wreath laying and prayers by Rev Janet Finlay and Fr Adriano. The event was MC’d by Post 27 secretary Charlie Mott, with piper Christy O’Brien and bugler Andrea Rodaro.

Particularly mourned was recently deceased Post 27 member John Molloy.

Refreshments followed at the Post 27 base on 17 Church Street.

Post 27 Chair Tom Mooney thanks all who came to pay respects and offer support for the annual day, and all who supports them throughout the year in collections.

Their base is open every weekday morning, with coffee mornings on Thursdays, all are welcome to call in.