“I read recently about the Irish, Republican, Gerry Adam’s refusal to meet the Queen during her Jubilee year. I was born in County Waterford, Ireland and spent every day of my first 5 years of life looking at the wedding photograph of my Irish grandparent's marriage on their house wall, positioned proudly alongside the young IRA member, Kevin Barry, who was executed by the British after he had been convicted of murdering a British soldier in 1920. I remember seeing a photograph of his arrest on the 20th of September, 1920. Despite my Irish rebel background connections, I was proud to meet the Queen when she presented me with the MBE in 1995 for my services to the West Yorkshire community. In 1950, when Ireland had no work or prospects to offer its men, it was England who provided my father with a job, our family with a home, me and my six brothers and sisters with a good education. I also received hospital treatment and skilled surgery that saved my life. England has provided me with a good life ever since. I was born an Irishman and will die one. The final resting place for my ashes will be in the Irish town where I was born. I have always declined to become an English citizen, but I will never denigrate or show any disrespect to a country which has done so much for me, my family and the free world in general. Long live the Queen.”
William Forde 13th June, 2012
William Forde 13th June, 2012
