Remembrance Visit to St. John's Church

The children of 5th class had a really interesting, informative and moving visit to St. John's Church last week. Grainne Glancy, who had invited us down, gave us a brief talk about World War 1 and her family's connection to the war. Paddy Cooke spoke to us about his life story and that of his family's. Paddy's grandfather served in World War 1 with his father serving in World War 2. Paddy himself served with the British army in Cyprus. He told a fascinating story of being sent alone by boat to England at age 2 and a half during the second World War to be reunited with him mother who was not allowed to return home to Ireland. The boat that he traveled on would be sunk by German torpedoes on it's next voyage across. Paddy told us a lot about other near misses that he had throughout his life.
Paddy showed us some of the memorabilia and medals awarded to himself, his father and grandfather for their service. Paddy's grandfather was awarded an OBE and the French Legion d'Honneur. Grainne showed us a picture of an uncle of hers who was killed in the war and showed us a collection of letters that a soldier had sent from the front back to his wife and family in Ireland. The children remarked that the handwriting was exquisite. 
Sean presented a Remembrance Day cross signed by 5th class to Paddy with Annamai reading out a prayer. Hollie laid a wreath on the war grave of Private M O'Hara with Noah reading a beautiful reflection. 
We have some photos of the trip below.