In June 1963, Irish American US President John F. Kennedy made a historic four-day visit to Ireland. As part of his trip, JFK visited his ancestral hometown of Dunganstown in Co Wexford, as well as Dublin.

The Journal now reveals the two stamps that have been issued in Ireland to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the late President’s visit.


The 60c stamps - above - shows President Kennedy being served tea by his cousin’s daughter, the late Mary Ann Ryan, in Dunganstown, just outside New Ross in 1963.

 


The 90c stamp - above - shows President Kennedy, Taoiseach Seán Lemass and then Commandant PJ Daly (left) laying a wreath at Arbour Hill. Daly, now aged 92, later went on to become Brigadier General of the Defence Forces, helped launch the stamps in New Ross.

The Irish Independent reports that local representative councillor Paul Crowdle welcomed the decision to unveil the stamps in New Ross, Kennedy’s ancestral home.

"This stamp launch is part of this year's special JFK 50 programme of events and reinforces the close links between New Ross and the Kennedy Family," said Crowdle.

Barney Whelan, An Post Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs, said "As they [the stamps] travel on letters and parcels and take their place in treasured stamp collections across the globe, they loudly proclaim Ireland's enduring respect and fondness for John F Kennedy, his historic visit and its significance for Irish people in the United States and at home."