Proud to be Irish

This time of year, everyone seems to be boasting about being Irish.  St. Patrick’s Day can bring out the Irish in all of us, but I really am proud of my Irish heritage and not just for the green beer. 

I often tell people that my dad is as Irish as the Blarney stone.  He was the son of an Irish immigrant, and he worked hard his whole life.  When I was growing up, I remember dad singing in the kitchen while he cooked.  Songs like ‘My Wild Irish Rose’,  ‘McNamara’s band’  or the 'Unicorn Song' were part of the fabric of my childhood.  We always ate Corned Beef and Cabbage on St. Patrick’s Day.

The main reason I am proud to be Irish, is how proud I am of my incredible Dad.  He served in the navy during World War II (well at least the very end of it).  He was one of those guys who enlisted before he was even 18, because he wanted to serve his country. 

After that he went on to become a New York City Detective.  He worked with the NYPD until he retired.  His old police stories are legendary, and I love to watch his eyes light up when he tells them to us. 

He has been an amazing Father and Grandfather, and Great-grandfather.  My two daughters love telling people about their Grandpa.  He continues to amaze me every day with his love for us and his incredible spirit.  He really is a perfect example of the 'Greatest Generation' that Tom Brokaw wrote about. 

Yes, I may have a green beer or two this St. Patrick’s Day, to go along with my Corned Beef & Cabbage, and I will wear my shamrock earrings and my 'proud to be Irish' t-shirt, but more than anything it’s my Dad who makes me infinitely proud to be Irish!