Southport, CT – The Ancient Order of Hibernians (“AOH”), the oldest fraternal Irish organization in America, honored Commodore John Barry, the First Flag Officer of the United States Navy on Saturday, September 8, 2018 at Perry Green in Southport CT.
The annual commemoration is put on by the Fairfield County AOH and the JFK Bridgeport division of the AOH along with Port 5 Naval Veteran’s. This year’s event was once again held at Perry Green in Southport harbor, whereBarry once set sail during the War for Independence.
Retired Master Chief Iannucci of the U.S. Navy acted as master of ceremonies. Retired Master Chief Paul Grammer was the keynote speaker and recognized the enduring contributions of Commodore John Barry.
Michael Tetreau, First Selectman of Fairfield read the Barry Proclamation while state Senator Tony Hwang spoke to Barry‘s important legacy and need for dignity and respect in all aspects of life. In addition to the fifty plus attendees, the AOH and Commodore John Barry were honored to have state Representative’s Laura Devlin and Brenda Kupchick in attendance.
The Color Guard included the Port 5 Firing Squad, Knights of Columbus Assembly 97 (Commodore John Barry Council) and the Gaelic American Club (Fairfield, CT) Pipe Band. A fabulous feast and celebration followed at Port 5 Naval Veteran’s in Bridgeport, CT immediately afterwards.
