Waterford marks Day of Commemoration
Mayor of Waterford City & County Cllr Seamus Ryan at the Waterford Day of Commemoration. Photo: Joe Evans
On Sunday, July 14, under clear skies, people in Waterford gathered at the John Condon Memorial in Cathedral Square to mark the National Day of Commemoration, remembering all Irish men and women who died in past wars, or on service with the United Nations.
It included tributes to those who served in World War I and II, the War of Independence, the Civil War, and more recently, UN peacekeeping missions.
Introduced by MC, Donnchadh Ó Ceallacháin, of the Museum of Treasures, was Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr. Séamus Ryan, who addressed the crowd in both Irish and English, saying: “Is ceart cuimhneamh inniu ar na Gaeil go léir, idir fhir agus mná, a fuair bás i gcogaí nó ar fhianaise leis na Náisiúin Aontaithe.”
“It is right that we remember today all Irish people, men and women, who died in wars or on service with the United Nations.”
The event was attended by several local councillors including Metropolitan Mayor Adam Wyse, religious dignitaries representing a range of faiths and members of the public.
An interfaith service formed the centre of the ceremony, with prayers offered for the fallen, for their families, and for peace in the world.
A poignant moment came with a version of 'The Last Rose of Summer', from musician Valerie Leahy, a reflective interlude that underscored the day’s quiet dignity.
The Mayor then laid a wreath on behalf of the people of Waterford.
The ceremony concluded with a minute’s silence and the national anthem, performed by members of the Defence Forces.
The service in Waterford echoed the State event held at Collins Barracks in Dublin, where President Michael D. Higgins led the national commemorations honouring the fallen Irish.
