Grand Marshal Tom Brennan - Commemorative Pin

" My pin features the Brennan Family Crest, surrounded by a Dara Celtic Knot-symbolizing strength, endurance and deep roots. The three years - 1980, 1995 and 2026 - represent three generations of Brennans honored as Grand Marshal: my grandfather, my father, and now me." - Tom Brennan

" My pin includes all the values I was raised with, that Brian and I work to pass on to our boys. The Claddagh symbolizes friendship, loyalty and love. The Shamrock represents the Holy Trinity and the Celtic Cross signifies the faith that has guided me through life's good and bad moments. Often my Dad reminded us we were American Irish, so both US and Irish flags surround this pin, which is extra special to me because my son Dylan designed it."  - Eileen Cassels Aker

"My pin proudly features the harp, the national symbol of Ireland. It reflects my deep pride in my Irish heritage and honors my grandparents’ journey from the humble villages of Cloonfad and Lissergool, Tibohine, County Roscommon, to building a large, loving family in America." - Daniel Cunningham

" The Sunburst Flag ("An Gal Greine") is an Irish flag associated with early Irish nationalism. It's first thought to have been used in 1858 by the Irish Republican Brotherhood. The flag's design is inspired by the Fianna of Irish mythology. Described as brave warriors who performed a large number of impressive feats, the Fianna referred to themselves as "Gal Greine," which means "sunburst" Their motto was "Post nubila Phoebus," meaning, "After the clouds the Sun," symbolizing a new day. The sunburst flag, and the symbol of the sunburst itself came into more common use by Irish nationalists during the 19th century."  - Bill McEvoy

"The Tri-knot on my pin represents my 3 daughters, Anne Catherine, Molly and Colleen. The Celtic Cross reflects my faith, and the engraved names honor my father, Gilbert Shaffer and father-in-law, Spanky McCue, FSOS is included in gratitude for the honor of this nomination, and the blue symbolizes both my beloved Seton Hall and County Tipperary.”  - Steve Shaffer