A daring WWII pilot, Chicago’s O’Hare airport, and links to a north Louth village revealed

It’s a story that reads almost like a Hollywood movie, and one which could strengthen Louth’s links with the US city of Chicago, a meeting of Dundalk councillor’s heard.

Edward “Butch” O’Hare, the legendary World War II pilot for whom Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport is named, could trace his family roots back to the Lurgankeel area of the Faughart parish in County Louth through his paternal grandfather, Patrick J. O’Hare.

O’Hare was awarded a Medal of Honour for his bravery in taking out Japanese bombers during an air raid in 1949, manoeuvres which saw him become the U.S Navy’s first “flying ace” during the second World War.

The fascinating story was raised at this month’s meeting of Dundalk Municipal District, where Cllr John Reilly called on Louth County Council to explore stronger ties with Chicago in recognition of the historic connection.

Tabling a motion before councillors, Cllr Reilly asked the local authority to “explore the possibility of developing greater links with Chicago in recognition of the descendants of Edward O’Hare, the renowned World War II pilot, who had family ties to the Lurgankeel area of Kilcurry.”

He told the meeting he was made aware of the links between Edward O’Hare and north Louth by a Cork councillor.

“I think this might be a unique opportunity for us to explore any economic links with Chicago, and any possibly tourist links.”

But Louth County Council ruled out “formal links” between Dundalk and the US city, despite the historical connections with north Louth.

Responding Joanna Kelly, Acting Director of Services at Louth County Council said the historical connections between the O’Hare family and the Kilcurry area were noted.

“While the development of formal links with the city of Chicago is not currently proposed, any opportunities to highlight or promote County Louth’s diaspora connections, including those associated with Edward O’Hare and his family connections can be considered as they arise through existing programmes and initiatives.”

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme