80th anniversary D-Day commemoration in north Mayo

THE village of Blacksod, on the Mullet Peninsula in north Mayo, is gearing up to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings with a series of events on Thursday, June 6.

The occasion marks the crucial role played by Blacksod Lighthouse in the success of the Normandy invasion, a turning point in World War II, remembering the local woman who saved D-Day, and with an aircraft flyover also planned, dedicated to the men of the lookout posts dotted along the coast.

Adverse weather reports from the late Maureen Sweeney, which the then 21-year-old recorded at the lighthouse and were relayed back to the Allied forces, saw the Normandy landings postponed, contributing hugely to the success of the operation.

The community in Blacksod, led by Maureen's grandson, Fergus Sweeney, of the SOLAS Visitor Experience and Tourism Hub, has organised a day-long programme of events to honour this significant contribution.

The day will start with a dawn remembrance ceremony at 5 a.m. at Blacksod Lighthouse.

Throughout the day, exhibits will be open to the public, showcasing the roles of Met Éireann, An Post and the Defence Forces during the war. These exhibits, enhanced with materials related to the D-Day weather forecast, will offer insights into Maureen Sweeney’s life and Blacksod’s crucial involvement. Highlights include displays from Met Éireann, An Post, Military Archives, Irish Lights, and movie props from Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster, Saving Private Ryan.

Guest speakers, including US Army veteran Ron Howko and retired Irish Army officer Donal Buckley, will provide engaging talks on topics such as ‘US Forces on D-Day’ and ‘Irish Neutrality, Then and Now.’

Musical entertainment by Bridget McMahon and an aircraft flyover dedicated to the men of the lookout posts will add to the day’s commemorative atmosphere, although, ironically, the flyover remains weather dependent.

Events will conclude at the newly opened SOLAS Visitor Centre at Eachléim with a panel discussion chaired by Michael Kennedy, author of ‘Guarding Neutral Ireland,’ at 5 p.m.

Mairead Melody Carr, manager of Mayo North Tourism, emphasised the significance of this event and Blacksod’s role in the region’s tourism landscape.

She said: “Blacksod’s unique history, particularly its impact on D-Day, is a key part of north Mayo’s heritage. Commemorating this anniversary not only honours the past but also enriches our cultural tourism, drawing visitors who are keen to learn about the pivotal moments and figures such as Maureen Sweeney and all others who helped to shape history.”

The celebrations also serve as a tribute to Maureen Sweeney, who passed away in December at the age of 100. Recognised by the US House of Representatives with a Congressional Record in 2021, Maureen was celebrated as 'the woman who saved D-Day'.

As Fergus Sweeney noted: “This is a time for us all to celebrate Maureen’s role properly and remember her remarkable life and contribution.”

The commemoration at Blacksod will be both a moving and educational experience, honouring the local heroes who played a vital role in one of history’s most significant events.

June 6 schedule of events

5 a.m.: Dawn remembrance ceremony at Blacksod Lighthouse.

10 a.m.: Exhibits open (Met Éireann, An Post, Military Archives, Irish Lights, and Saving Private Ryan props).

11 a.m.: Guest speaker Ron Howko (US Forces on D-Day).

12 p.m.: Guest speaker Donal Buckley (Irish Neutrality, Then and Now).

1 - 2 p.m.: 1940s music by Bridget McMahon.

Afternoon: Aircraft flyover (weather dependent).

5 p.m.: Combined talks at SOLAS Visitor Centre, Eachléim, chaired by Michael Kennedy, author of ‘Guarding Neutral Ireland’.