Every year the French embassy in Ireland holds a ceremony at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin to honour those Irishmen who fought for France. This includes those who fought during the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), the First World War (1914-1918) and the Second World War (1939-1945). It usually takes place on France's national holiday - 14 July.
Every year for the last number of years, an Irish recipient of the French Légion d'honneur is commemorated after the ceremony. This year it was William Lombard Murphy (1876-1943) who was remembered at the graveyard. I was asked by the embassy to speak about Dr Murphy's life and times. I was pleased to do so and was delighted to meet members of his extended family who were present at the ceremony. I am writing a newspaper article based on my speech and will share more details as soon as it is published.
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