20/07/2026
I’ve started to work on a book that has occupied my thoughts for some time: For Valor and Heritage — The Immigrants Behind America’s Highest Honour. (working title)
The research has taken me from the Irish Famine and mass emigration to the American Civil War, the western frontier, two world wars, Korea, Vietnam and beyond into Afganistan. It has also revealed stories that have often been overlooked—particularly the extraordinary contribution of Irish-born sailors.
I am working towards publishing the book later this year with the much appreciated help of the Ireland Funds Monaco and the Princess Grace Irish Library - Under the aegis of Fondation Princesse Grace As this year marks 250 years since July 4, 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was adopted in Philadelphia where Princess Grace was born it feels like an especially fitting moment to examine the role played by Irish immigrants in defending the United States, shaping its institutions and helping to define what it meant to become an American.
There is still plenty of research, writing, verification and editing ahead, but we have taken the ship out from safe harbour and the sails of penmanship are beginning to unfurl. I look forward to sharing some of these stories over the coming months and get your thoughts.
