The Irish Naval Association (INA) along with other veteran Association
were invited to take part in a commemoration and wreath laying ceremony
in the Irish Navel Base in Haulbowline Cork yesterday to mark the anniversary
of the death of L/S Michael Quinn DSM who lost his life going to the assistance
of a Spanish fishing Vessel that had gone up on rocks in Bantry Bay thirty years ago
this month. There was a very large turnout of our members who traveled by Train, Boat
and Car from our Branches in Limerick, Cork and Dublin to be at the Ceremony
which was held yesterday the 30/01/2020.There was a large turnout of Officers, NCOs, Seamen and recruits
on parade along with a Honour Guard.The family of Michael was was represented by his brother and sisters
Paul Kellett DSM who was with Michael on the night of the tragedy also attended with his wife
The Chaplin to the Naval Service Fr Des Campion SDB CF led the prayers at the Naval Memorial on the Quayside
Four wreaths were laid by the following, The FLAG Officer Commanding the Naval Service Commodore Michael Malone,
Quinn Family, Spanish Embassy and the Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Mark Mellett DSM representing the Defence Forces.
We were thanked by both the Flag and the Chief of staff for travelling down and our large attendance.
The Dublin Branch of the INA is named after Michael. After the Ceremony a mass was held in the church
Star of the Sea on the Base. Because of the large attendance at the Mass Fr Des looked for a lay Minister
of the Eucharist and I gladly volunteered. When the Mass was over we were invited to the Men's Mess
(which is named after Michael) to have Tea, Coffee and Scones.
Before we departed for home after saying our goodbyes we took the opportunity to take a tour of the Base
and the Dockyard where we were shown around some of the well equipped work shops.
We also got a very closeup view of STY Creidne which was out of the water for the winter. Creidne was based in Dublin
for number of years for the Training of the Naval Reserve where we received great training .
She has had a lot of money spent on her and she looks very well.
Is Mise ,Le Meas,
Bryan Gildea.
President of the Irish Naval Association
