Civic reception proposed to honour Distinguished Service award to late Mayo Private

A CIVIC reception has been proposed for the Kedian family from Ballyhaunis who recently accepted the Distinguished Service Medal on behalf of their late brother, Private Billy Kedian.

Private Kedian (21) was killed on peacekeeping duties in Lebannon in 1999, with a time-bound rule being revoked so that the military honour could be bestowed on him.

A former classmate, now local councillor, Alma Gallagher, said the presentation by Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris had been a special occasion for the Kedian family and Friends of Billy Kedian committee.

We can’t be behind the door in remembering our peacekeeping heroes, she told a meeting of Mayo County Council, proposing a civic reception to the Kedian family be held to commemorate the occasion.

Last July a memorial was unveiled in Moneymore, Ballyhaunis, to celebrate Private Keadin's bravery and lasting legacy.