Defence Forces News
Following in the Wake of Admiral Brown
On Wednesday the 3rd of March, Naval Service seaman and diver, Able Seaman James Walsh will be the first recipient of the inaugural ‘Admiral Brown and J.J. O’Hara trophy.’ The award is presented to the ‘Young Naval Leader of the year,’ and will take place at the annual Admiral Brown commemoration which will take place in Foxford, Co. Mayo. The award will be presented by the Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr John Cribben and is named after one of Ireland’s greatest Naval Heroes, Foxford native, Admiral William Brown. Admiral Brown was the founder of the Argentinean Navy, whose victory over the Spanish Squadron in 1814 precipitated independence which was declared 200 years ago this year.
Corkman, Able Seaman Walsh is a recent graduate of the Naval Potential NCO’s Course, where he was awarded a Higher Certificate in Leadership, Management and Naval Studies from the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI). Speaking of the award, Captain (Naval Service) Mark Mellett, Officer Command Naval Operations Command said;
“Throughout the course James showed excellent leadership qualities, and constantly proved himself as a young Naval Leader. It is only fitting that young naval leaders of today should model themselves on heroes such as Admiral William Brown”.
The other name on the trophy is that of J.J. O’Hara, who passed away in 2008. He was a founding member of the Admiral Brown society and did much to raise awareness of the achievements of the Admiral and to place his memory firmly among the greats of Irish maritime history.
A related ceremony will take place in Dublin at the statue of Admiral Brown on Sir John Rogerson’s quay at 12 p.m., where the Naval Vessel L.E. ORLA is docked. The ship’s Captain, Lt Cdr Tom Hobbins, will lay a wreath at the statue in memory of Admiral Brown.
Further information from:
Press Officer: Comdt. Neil Nolan 01 8042687 : 087 2482130
e-mail: Press Officer web: www.military.ie