The Old Dundalk Society is delighted to announce the first of its Spring lectures of the 2025 season.

The lecture entitled The FCÁ (Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil) (Local Defence Force) the History of Volunteering Soldiering in the newly independent Ireland from 1929 until the standing down of the FCÁ in 2005, also referring to notable local people who served in the ACoy 8th Battalion Dundalk.

The Lecture will take place in the Louth County Museum, Jocelyn Street, Dundalk on Thursday 27th March 2025, commencing at 8.00pm sharp and will be presented by local man Tony Martin.

Tony moved with his parents from Greenore in 1952 to reside in Castle Road, Dundalk. He was educated at the Marist College where he joined the school FCÁ platoon in October 1963. Tony served in the FCÁ initially as a private soldier, in the same unit (ACoy 8th Battalion) where he quickly moved through most NCO ranks, and he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in 1981 and retiring as a captain in 2003.

Patrons are advised to come early, as there is limited capacity available at the lecture venue.

Voluntary contribution at the door.

Refreshments served after lecture.