INTRODUCTION
The Artillery Club will visit the War of Independence Battle Site of Crossbarry on Thursday, 02 May 2024. On the way, we will visit the Upton Battle Site.
The Crossbarry Ambush, or Battle of Crossbarry occurred on 19 March 1921 and was one of the largest engagements of the Irish War of Independence. It took place near the village of Crossbarry, about 20 km south-west of Cork. About 100 IRA Volunteers, commanded by Tom Barry, foiled an attempt by a British Army force of several hundreds to encircle them. Barry ambushed a significant portion of that force. The British were led by Major Arthur Perceval of the Essex Regiment.
PROGRAMME OF EVENTS
Wed 01 May 24
Optionally, Pre-D assembly for overnight accommodation at Oriel House Hotel, Main Street, Ballincollig P31 DY93.
Thu 2 May 24
1100 hrs Briefing at Oriel House Hotel on the leadup to the Crossbarry action.
1200 hrs Depart Hotel for Comdt Charlie Hurley Memorial, Upton and Crossbarry.
1500 hrs Return to Hotel. Free time. Option to travel to Cork (bus 220) or weather permitting, guided visit to Murphy Barracks.
1930 hrs Assemble for dinner at 2000 hrs.
Fri 3 May 24
1100 hrs Coffee at Officers’ Mess, Collins Barracks.
1130 hrs Visit to Collins Barracks Museum, conducted by Curator BtyQMS Denis McGarry.
1300 hrs Lunch at Officers’ Mess. GOC 1 Bde, Brig Gen Brian Cleary, will be Guest of Honour.
ACCOMMODATION
Oriel House Hotel and Leisure Centre in Ballincollig has offered a special rate of €348 for a couple sharing for 2 nights Bed and Breakfast and 1 Dinner. To avail of this rate, booking should be made as soon as possible, quoting Artillery Club, by phoning 021 420 8400, and by quoting reference 175720.
Locals, who do NOT require accommodation but who we hope can attend Thursday’s Dinner, are advised to pre-book also. Dinner is €37.
ADMINISTRATION
Coordinator: Lt Col Brendan Crowley (Retd)
Identification. As we will visit Collins Barracks, prior notification to Brendan of full name, rank, car make and registration is requested please.
Other Expenses. There will be a charge of €15 to cover the lunch at Collins Barracks. This amount payable to the Coordinator on arrival at the Mess, please.
Enrolment. Early enrolment to the Coordinator please (to include car details) . Attendees should deal directly with Oriel House Hotel.