PICTURES: Warm tributes and fond memories shared at launch of Marie Gleeson's memoir in Cashel

Cashel Library was packed on Friday evening June 19, as family, friends, former teachers and members of the local community gathered for the launch of Marie Gleeson's memoir, Be Like the Sea – Life, Learnings and Leadership from an Irish Navy Captain.

The well-attended event celebrated the remarkable life and career of the Ballykelly native, whose book charts her journey from growing up on a Tipperary farm to becoming one of the most accomplished figures in the history of the Irish Naval Service.

The evening was expertly hosted by Today FM presenter and fellow Cashel native Cathal Minogue, who guided the discussion with thoughtful and engaging questions that explored both the personal and professional experiences that shaped Marie's life.

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A number of people who played important roles throughout Marie's life were invited to speak during the launch, sharing personal stories and reflections that provided guests with a unique insight into the woman behind the memoir.

Among those who addressed the gathering were Marie's former teachers, Eleanor Dwyer and Chris Hayes, her uncle Michael Clancy, who served in the military and was a close mentor throughout her career, and her father Noel Gleeson.

The stories shared throughout the evening painted a vivid picture of Marie's formative years growing up on the family farm in Ballykelly. As the eldest of six children, she learned the value of hard work from an early age, developing a resilience and determination that would later serve her throughout her naval career.

Guests also heard how Marie's leadership qualities emerged long before she entered the Naval Service. One memorable story recalled her successful campaign as a young girl to secure permission for local girls to serve as altar servers in her local church, demonstrating a determination and willingness to challenge convention from an early age.

Speaking about her former pupil, Chris Hayes remarked: "As a child she was full of ideas and full of assertiveness."

Eleanor Dwyer echoed those sentiments, telling the audience: "It was no surprise to any of us what she achieved with her life. She had a lot of strong characteristics from a young age."

Michael Clancy shared insights into Marie's early career ambitions, revealing that she had initially applied to join the Army after completing university before ultimately pursuing a career in the Naval Service, where she went on to excel through the ranks.

Guests were reminded of Marie's trailblazing achievements during her 21 years of service from 1998 to 2019. She became only the second female Naval Service officer to captain an Irish naval vessel and distinguished herself throughout her cadetship and subsequent career. Her service included a deployment to Chad as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission.

The memoir also reflects on the challenges Marie faced away from military life, including the loss of her first child and the experience of balancing IVF treatment, pregnancy and family life alongside a demanding career. Since retiring from the Naval Service, she has established NavMar Leadership Ltd, while also advocating for improved supports for Defence Forces veterans and promoting awareness of Ireland's potential within the ‘Blue Economy.’

Also in attendance on the night were Marie's mother Una Gleeson, and her daughters Laoise and Muireann, who joined family members and friends in celebrating the publication of the book. Marie spoke proudly of her mother on the night desrcibing her as: “a fantastic role model.”

Among the guests were Cathaoirleach of the Tipperary Cahir-Cashel Municipal District, Councillor Roger Kennedy, and local Fine Gael councillor Declan Burgess.

Bringing the evening to a close, Marie expressed her gratitude to those who had supported her throughout her life and career and to everyone who attended the launch.

"This was the night I was looking forward to," she said. "I wanted to finish with this launch tonight. A huge thank you to everyone for coming."

Copies of Be Like the Sea were available for purchase and signing at the event. The book is available from Bookworm Thurles, Eason stores and bookshops nationwide.

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