On 26 September 2026, Ballinrobe in County Mayo brought together the Lithuanian and Irish communities for commemorative events dedicated to Feliksas Vaitkus and his historic 1935 transatlantic flight aboard the Lockheed Vega 5C “Lituanica II”.
Representatives of L.A.B.A.S., the Dublin Lithuanian Community, the Lithuanian community in Ireland, local authorities and the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in Ireland came together to honour this important chapter of shared Lithuanian–Irish history and to strengthen cooperation for the future.
HONOURING THE LEGACY OF FELIKSAS VAITKUS
In 2015, to mark the 80th anniversary of Feliksas Vaitkus’ historic transatlantic flight, a permanent memorial was unveiled in Ballinrobe — a replica of the Lockheed Vega 5C “Lituanica II”.
The memorial project was initiated and brought to life by Dainius Čepaitis (L.A.B.A.S.), working through the International Lithuanian Heraldry Foundation, with the cooperation of the Lithuanian community and partners in Ireland. The anniversary events were organised together with the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in Ireland, the Lithuanian community and Mayo County Council.
Since then, the memorial has become a lasting symbol of the historic connection between Lithuania and Ireland — preserving the memory of Vaitkus’ remarkable flight and bringing Lithuanian and Irish communities together across generations.
STRENGTHENING LITHUANIAN–IRISH COOPERATION
The commemorative events were attended by H.E. Jonas Grinevičius, Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to Ireland. During the visit, Dainius Čepaitis, representing L.A.B.A.S., met with the Ambassador to discuss the organisation’s activities, new initiatives and opportunities for further cooperation.
The meeting highlighted the importance of continuing to develop connections between Lithuanian communities, Irish partners and institutions, while creating new opportunities for cultural, historical and community projects.
FROM REMEMBRANCE TO FUTURE COOPERATION
Dainius Čepaitis also met with Tom Gilligan, Director of Services at Mayo County Council, to discuss opportunities for future Lithuanian–Irish cooperation in County Mayo.
Among the ideas discussed was the possibility of developing a museum dedicated to Feliksas Vaitkus — a place that could preserve the story of his historic 1935 transatlantic flight, its connection with Ballinrobe and County Mayo, and the Lithuanian–Irish heritage that has grown around it.
The discussion also explored opportunities for further cultural, historical and community projects bringing Lithuanian and Irish partners together.
BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
During the commemorative events, Dainius Čepaitis met with Cllr John Caulfield, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, for a warm and constructive conversation about strengthening Lithuanian–Irish cooperation in County Mayo.
They discussed opportunities for further cultural, historical and community initiatives, as well as closer cooperation with L.A.B.A.S. John Caulfield expressed his openness to supporting community initiatives and continuing the dialogue as new projects develop.
THE COMMUNITY BEHIND THE FRIENDSHIP
The strength of Lithuanian–Irish friendship also comes from the people who keep these connections alive year after year. Jolanta and Rima, active members of the local Lithuanian community, have supported community activities and helped preserve these important ties in County Mayo.
During the commemorative events, they once again expressed their support for L.A.B.A.S. initiatives and their willingness to continue contributing to Lithuanian–Irish friendship and future community projects.
PRESERVING THE MEMORIAL TOGETHER
A special thank you goes to Rimantas, an active supporter of L.A.B.A.S., whose contribution goes far beyond attending commemorative events. In 2025, he personally helped care for the Feliksas Vaitkus memorial and the “Lituanica II” replica in Ballinrobe, taking part in cleaning, repairs, repainting and tidying the memorial area.
Dainius Čepaitis expressed his personal gratitude to Rimantas for his time, practical help and continued commitment to preserving this important part of Lithuanian–Irish heritage.
A LEGACY THAT WILL LIVE ON
The remarkable legacy of Feliksas Vaitkus and his historic transatlantic flight will continue to be remembered and passed on to future generations. L.A.B.A.S. intends to continue organising commemorative events in Ballinrobe, keeping this important chapter of Lithuanian–Irish history alive.
Looking ahead, L.A.B.A.S. also plans to work with its partners towards a major restoration and renewal of the Feliksas Vaitkus memorial, helping to preserve it for future generations and further develop the site as a place of remembrance, history and friendship.
Through these initiatives, we will continue strengthening Lithuanian–Irish friendship — not only through our shared cultural and historical heritage, but also through community cooperation, education, innovation and new projects connecting Lithuania and Ireland.
Feliksas Vaitkus’ courage brought our histories together. Our responsibility today is to preserve that memory and carry this friendship into the future.
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Heritage • Remembrance • Friendship • Future
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