Order of British Empire
Sovereign Military Order of Malta
Order of The House of Orange
During my time at Kylemore I met an individual by the name of Paul Smithwick. Beer drinkers may recognize the last name -- yes, he's "beer royalty." Paul's family began brewing Smithwick beer in 1702 in Kilkenny, Ireland.
Two years ago, Paul and his son Dan launched another brewery in Kilkenny -- Sullivan's Brewing Company.
Paul was kind enough to drive me from Kylemore Abbey to Dublin Airport (a four hour drive) on Tuesday. During that time together -- I learned a great deal about Paul's career and some of the honors he's received...
I even convinced him to show me some of the "medals" that went with these honors (photos above).
I don't believe there are too many people walking around the planet who have been honored with the:
I can't thank Paul Smithwick enough for the hospitality he extended me -- driving me four hours to Dublin. He didn't have to do that.
