Strong links between Mayo town and Argentinian Navy to be celebrated

The town of Foxford is preparing to welcome the crew of the Argentine ship ARA Libertad to the town on Saturday, July 30, to mark the 245th anniversary of the birth of Admiral William Brown, founder of the Argentine Navy.

The ARA Libertad arrives in Dublin on July 29 ahead of the ceremonies in Mayo.

The Argentinian Ambassador Moira Wilkinson, the captain of ehe Libertad, Carlos Schavinsky, and crew will be welcomed to Foxford by Mayo County Council, the Admiral Brown Society and the people of Foxford.

Argentinian Ambassador Moira Wilkinson and the community of Foxford will honour two people linked through their life journeys to Foxford, namely Admiral William Brown, founder of Argentine Navy who was born in Foxford on June 22, 1777, and former Argentine Ambassador Laura Bernal, who is buried the local Craggagh Cemetery.

Foxford residents have many fond memories of the navy coming to the community over the years and marching through the streets.

In 1957 a bust of Admiral Brown was presented to the people of Foxford by the Argentine Navy.

The Argentinian ambassador continues the tradition of celebrating and commemorating the links between Ireland and Argentina.

The late JJ O Hara, Foxford, who was a driving force forging links between Ireland and Argentina, will also be fondly remembered at the ceremonies.