Mr Jimmy Keating will retire as head waiter at Collins Barracks in Cork next Thursday, after a career in which he has seen all the Army top brass come and go. His colleagues will be sorry to see the affable Jimmy leave, but after 47 years' service his time has come.
Already, his retirement has been marked by the Defence Forces Chief-of-Staff, Lieut Gen David Stapleton, who visited the barracks recently to make a presentation to him. Besides acknowledging sterling service, Lieut Gen Stapleton, who is also due to retire shortly, was saying farewell to an old friend.
Many moons ago, as a young officer, David Stapleton found himself posted to Collins Barracks. Not being au fait with Cork, he asked Jimmy for advice. Where was the best place to meet friends, etc.
Jimmy, a native son, knew the answers and advised the future chief-of-staff that one of the best dances in town was at the Imperial Hotel.
The advice was taken and in due course romance blossomed, because that was where Lieut Gen Stapleton met his wife.
"He was always a thorough gentleman, always very easy to talk to," Jimmy said. "When he left for duties elsewhere, he said he would come back from time to time for a chat. He was as good as his word. When he came for the presentation we chatted about old times. It was a very nice gesture on his part."
When John F. Kennedy made a lightning visit to the barracks in 1964, Jimmy Keating shook his hand and spoke briefly to him. During his career, he has met all the visiting dignitaries and politicians.
In retirement he plans to indulge his love for cooking, walking and travelling. After 47 years, he holds the record for the longest-serving civilian employee in the Defence Forces.