AILF Salutes Irish Americans
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AILF Salutes Irish Americans

The Irish have always been a catalyst for progress in America. For instance, it is estimated that during the American Revolution between one-third and one-half of General Washington's forces, including 1492 officers, were of Irish descent. Once the struggle for freedom from England was won, many Irish Americans diverted their energy and courage to subduing the "Wild Frontier." Such names as John C. Calhoun, Kit Carson, Davy Crockett, Pat Garrett and Sam Houston will forever be etched in American history texts.

Other notable Irish American contributors are automaker Henry Ford, architect Louis Sullivan, astronauts John Glenn and Neil Armstrong, actors Marion Morrison (John Wayne) and Maureen O'Hara, writers Edgar Allen Poe and F. Scott Fitzgerald, U.S. presidents Andrew Jackson and Ulysses S. Grant, just to name a few. This year's American Heritage project is dedicated to recognizing and documenting the importance of Irish Americans in the making of American History.

AILF Annual Benefit Gala Dinner, "A Salute to Irish Americans."

This year's AILF Annual Benefit Dinner, "A Salute to Irish Americans," was an overwhelming success. Some of the events of the evening included a processional led by the Boston Police Gaelic Column of Pipes and Drums and a traditional Irish step dance performed by a group of young girls from the Green-O'Leary Irish Step-Dancing Troupe. The evening concluded with a comedic performance by local humorist Jimmy Tingle.

During the benefit, AILA Board of Directors President Margaret McCormick introduced the recipients of the "American Heritage Award" for outstanding contributions by immigrants to our nation. The five recipients were: John J. Cullinane, president of The Cullinane Group, Inc. and founder of Cullinet Software; Lena Deevy, executive director of the Boston Irish Immigration Center; Thomas S. Durant, assistant director of the Massachusetts General Hospital; David Feherty, professional golfer and comentator; and Maureen O'Hara, award-winning actress and businesswoman.

AILF Research and Reports

Irish American Political Leaders


Famous Irish American Actors and Actresses

Famous Irish American Authors

Important Business Figures

Famous Irish American Athletes

Other Notable Irish Americans

Irish American Organizations:

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American Immigration Law Foundation
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