Far, far away

There will be parades and celebrations the Irish world over in the coming days. And that means literally the world.
Many parades have already taken place. But we should pay special attention to the upcoming parade in New York not just because of its sheer size and longevity, but because of its association with the Fighting Sixty Ninth, a potent living symbol of what generations of Irish have put on the line for these United States and what this nation stands for.
Hundreds of 69th members will be absent this year, serving in far off Afghanistan. We would hope that no matter where St. Patrick is celebrated this season, a thought or a prayer will be spared for the safe return home of each and every one of them.