John Barry, an Irishman who made a big impact on the U. S. Navy, is not as well-known as he should be. He was born in Wexford, Ireland, in 1745 and later moved to Pennsylvania. There, he became a skilled shipmaster and played a crucial role in the American Revolution.

Barry is often called the "Father of the U. S. Navy" because of his contributions. He offered his ship, the Alfred, to the Continental Navy and was the first to capture a British ship during the war. This earned him a thank-you note from General George Washington.

Throughout his career, Barry commanded five navy ships and was honored with the title of commodore when the U. S. Navy was officially founded in 1794. He passed away in 1803, but his legacy lived on.

In 1962, former U. S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower visited Wexford to honor Barry by unveiling a statue dedicated to him. This statue was a gift from the American people and was transported to Ireland on the USS Charles S. Sperry. The statue stands near a historic bridge over the river Slaney, which played a role in the 1798 Irish rebellion.

Eisenhower's visit was significant because it highlighted the connections between the U. S. and Ireland. It also showed the respect and admiration for Barry's contributions to the U. S. Navy. The visit was a big deal for the local citizens of Wexford and was seen as a huge honor.

The links between Pennsylvania and Ireland go back centuries, and Barry's story is a part of that history. His legacy continues to be celebrated, and his contributions to the U. S. Navy are still recognized today.

The Irishman Who Shaped the U. S. Navy

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