Glasnevin ceremony honours forgotten Irish aviation pioneer James Fitzmaurice
A poignant graveside commemoration at Glasnevin Cemetery marked the anniversary of Colonel James Fitzmaurice, celebrating his historic 1928 east-to-west transatlantic flight. Organisers plan nationwide events leading to the upcoming centenary to inspire future generations.
Source:
Laois County Council
•
⏱️ 2 min read
The Fitz100 committee recently gathered at Glasnevin Cemetery to pay tribute to Colonel James Fitzmaurice, the pioneering Irish airman who co-piloted the legendary 1928 Bremen flight. Wreaths were laid alongside a traditional Piper's Lament on the sixty-first anniversary of his death, with senior Defence Forces personnel and heritage representatives uniting to honour his remarkable legacy. Major General Ralph James emphasised that the committee intends to introduce this extraordinary aviation hero to every young person across the country before the grand centenary celebrations conclude in April 2028.
Departing from Baldonnel Aerodrome on 12 April 1928, Fitzmaurice alongside German counterparts successfully navigated the treacherous east-to-west Atlantic crossing against fierce headwinds with minimal equipment. Their historic feat captured global acclaim, earning them the United States Distinguished Flying Cross and cementing a powerful symbol of post-war international reconciliation. Local champions in Portlaoise are now preparing to showcase this incredible narrative through upcoming cultural exhibitions, including the planned display of the historic Portlaoise plane.
As anticipation builds towards the Festival of Flight scheduled for April 2027, community leaders and heritage officers are working hand in hand to ensure proper national recognition. Further details regarding international events spanning Ireland, Germany, and Canada will be available on the official website as the countdown to the centenary gathers momentum.
Departing from Baldonnel Aerodrome on 12 April 1928, Fitzmaurice alongside German counterparts successfully navigated the treacherous east-to-west Atlantic crossing against fierce headwinds with minimal equipment. Their historic feat captured global acclaim, earning them the United States Distinguished Flying Cross and cementing a powerful symbol of post-war international reconciliation. Local champions in Portlaoise are now preparing to showcase this incredible narrative through upcoming cultural exhibitions, including the planned display of the historic Portlaoise plane.
As anticipation builds towards the Festival of Flight scheduled for April 2027, community leaders and heritage officers are working hand in hand to ensure proper national recognition. Further details regarding international events spanning Ireland, Germany, and Canada will be available on the official website as the countdown to the centenary gathers momentum.
0 views