Over the weekend, a truly special celebration took place just outside Newry, where family, friends, dignitaries, and comrades gathered to mark the 100th birthday of Captain John Gough, a proud Irish Guards veteran of the Second World War.
The celebration was hosted by the Ulster Branch Irish Guards Association at Captain Gough’s home and was attended by over 160 guests, all there to honour a remarkable man who has lived through, and served during some of the most defining moments of modern history.
Despite April’s unpredictability, the weather was kind, and Captain Gough’s family made every guest feel warmly welcomed. Captain Gough, who served with the Irish Guards during World War II, has reached the extraordinary milestone of 100 years, a life marked not only by longevity but by courage, service, and grace.
The event was a fitting tribute to a veteran who, despite the passing of time, still recalls those he served with, many of whom never returned home. Reflecting on these comrades, Captain Gough reminded everyone of the true cost of freedom.
Among those who came to pay tribute was the Veterans Commissioner for Northern Ireland, David Johnstone, who spent time with Captain Gough in his drawing room and presented him with a framed display tracing the History of the Poppy, a symbol that has come to define remembrance for generations. Captain Gough was deeply moved by the gift and the meaning behind it.
Also in attendance were:
- His Grace the Duke of Abercorn, Lord Anthony Hamilton
- Sir William Hall, President of the Ulster Branch
- Catherine Champion, Deputy Lord Lieutenant for County Down
- Lieutenant Colonel Simon Nicholls MBE
- Major Jimmy Parke, Irish Guards
- Drummer Aldridge, the Regimental Mascot and Handler
- Members of the Ulster and Republic of Ireland Branches of the Irish Guards Association
- Newry Royal British Legion,
- Frontier Pipes and Drums
- Army Cadets from Kilkeel High School
- Sherry Casey from BFBS, Ulster Tatler, Photographer Bob Condal, and many more family friends
During the event, Major Jimmy Parke presented Captain Gough with a beautiful Irish Guards Wolfhound statue on behalf of the Regiment, a lasting token of honour and respect. His wife Eleanor was also presented with flowers and had the joy of presenting John with a birthday cake to mark the occasion.
The Gough family have since expressed heartfelt thanks to all those who made the day possible, saying they were overwhelmed by the support and kindness shown.
These celebrations are more than just birthday parties. They are moments to acknowledge and cherish the living history embodied in men like Captain Gough, World War II veterans who served at a time when the world stood at a crossroads. As these generations grow older and fewer in number, the importance of honouring them only grows.
Earlier this year, the Veterans Commissioner also celebrated the centenary birthday of Fred Jennings, a World War II RAF veteran, at the Ulster Aviation Society. Together, these events shine a light on what it truly means to serve, and what it means to remember.
As Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carn, recently said in a podcast with the Commissioner: “Freedom is not free.” Every conflict since WWII has been a continuation of that same fight, for freedom, diplomacy, and rights.
To Captain John Gough, and to Fred Jennings, we say: thank you for your service, your stories, and your sacrifices. We honour your history, and we celebrate your century.