Sir, - A postscript to the tribute on my father, Comdt. Hugh Maguire (and known within his extended family, friends and neighbours as "Pop" by Kevin Myers. His army unit, 2nd. Motor Squadron, now 2nd. Cavalry, under Comdt. Ollie Barbour and Comdt. George Kearton, not only honoured "Pop" in death at his funeral, but also in life for his "100th birthday" celebrations.
On that day, October 21st, his army comrades, together with Comdt. Ollie Barbour and Captain Pim, arrived to his home in Glasnevin by staff car, with escort outriders, bearing the specially commissioned birthday cake and invited him to a reunion of past and present officers at the unit's base in Cathal Brugha barracks.
Comdt. Hugh was made most welcome by Comdt. Ollie Barbour, Col. Pat O'Sullivan Director of Cavalry and General Mangan. On display for the occasion were memorabilia, photos, archive films and the "Sliabh Na mBan" armour car. The formal greeting preceding the lunch in the officers mess was given by their youngest serving officer, 2nd. Lieutenant Michael Conneely, who also was in command of the bugler, firing party and bearer party together with Sgt. Paddy Doyle.
On "Pop's" retirement as Commandant of the 2nd. Motor Squadron, and in recognition of his successful and popular command in leading his unit to outright winners of the All-Ireland Army Competition for two years, his comrades sought to award his achievements with a formal presentation. This he declined; however when asked what he would like, he sought, and his unit commissioned, a superb handcrafted "leather medal" and chain. This medal bears the squadron insignia and colours together with his own identity, "An Madra Rua" (The Red Fox), for his cunning and leadership. This medal was his most treasured possession.
"Pop" never forgot his Cavan roots, in Corlateerin, Crosserlough, Crosskeys and Ballyjamesduff. As founder-member of the Cavan Association in Dublin, he was elected Cavan Person of The year 1996-1997, last November.
Gone, but not forgotten. - Yours, etc.,
The Mall, Malahide,
Co Fingal