Gerry O'Connor's book launched at Columb Barracks

The local launch of the book "Medals of the Irish Defence Forces" by local Reserve Defence Forces member, Gerry O'Connor took place at Columb Barracks last week.Battery Quartermaster Gerry O'Connor, whose day job is with An Post, has been an avid collector of military memorabilia over the years, initially collecting Defence Forces unit insignia.He came up with the idea of a book on Military Medals of the Irish Defence Forces about three years ago, having carried out an in-depth study of Medals for Defence Forces, Gardai and Civil Defence personnel, taking particular interest in overseas medals issued to Defence Forces members.While attending the International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes in 2008, he mentioned this idea to the now recently deceased Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Dermot Earley, who encouraged the project, which finally came to fruition this year. Gerry's input to the publication was very valuable, having completed much of the required research and offering his expertise to Defence Forces HQ Ceremonial Section during the preparation phase of the book.The official launch of the book took place in McKee Barracks, Dublin on 20th January this year at which the current Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Sean McCann acknowledged Gerry's contribution to the publication and welcomed him and his family to the launch.Gerry is an active member of the 54th Reserve Artillery Regiment in Mullingar. His Commanding Officer, Commandant Paul Whelan, welcomed Gerry and a large number of Gerry's colleagues and friends to the local launch at Columb Barracks for last week's local launch.