Irish - Lithuanian connection celebrated in Mayo town

Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Councillor John Caulfield welcomed the Lithuanian Ambassador to Ireland, His Excellency Jonas Grinevičius, during a commemorative ceremony held in Ballinrobe on Saturday, September 26.

This annual event aims to strengthen Irish-Lithuanian relations while commemorating the remarkable achievement of Lithuanian-American pilot Lieutenant Colonel Felix Vaitkus. In aviation history, Felix Vaitkus is recognised as the sixth pilot to successfully complete a solo transatlantic flight when he crossed the Atlantic Ocean in 1935.

The enduring legacy of his flight continues to hold great significance for both the Lithuanian community and the people of Ballinrobe. Mayo County Council was delighted to host the commemorative ceremony at Bowers Walk, Ballinrobe, marking the historic landing of Vaitkus' aircraft in nearby fields. This event has become a powerful symbol of friendship and shared heritage, uniting Lithuanian and Irish communities through a unique chapter in their common history.

For more than two decades, the Lithuanian diaspora in Ireland has gathered annually in Mayo to honour the memory of Felix Vaitkus and celebrate the enduring legacy of his historic achievement. The ceremony serves as an important cultural heritage event, bringing together members of the Lithuanian community from across Ireland alongside local representatives and dignitaries.

Among those in attendance were local Councillors Damian Ryan and Michael Burke as well as Chairman of the Municipal District, Councillor Neil Cruise, and Director of Services Tom Gilligan.

Mayo County Council has fostered strong links with Lithuania over many years and maintains a twinning arrangement with the city of Marijampolė, further reflecting the close and valued relationship between Mayo and Lithuania.