Deposited Collections

Biographical History

Born in Dunbell, Gowran, County Kilkenny, he matriculated in the National University of Ireland in 1916 and studied medicine for two years. In November 1917 he joined the Irish Volunteers and served with the Dublin Brigade. Entering the National Army in June 1922, he was formally commissioned to the rank of Captain in September 1923. Much of his long military career was spent on the Headquarters Staff, engaged on intelligence work. He succeeded Liam Archer as Chief Staff Officer of G2 [Intelligence Branch] in 1942 and held this crucial position throughout the Emergency years.

He was particularly renowned for his cooperation with Richard Hayes, Director of the National Library, in breaking German codes. He transferred to the Military College as Commandant in 1952 and retired from the defence forces in 1955. He had a lifelong interest in the promotion of historical research, particularly military history.

Archival History

This collection was deposited in UCD Archives in June 1985 by Michael Bryan, Colonel Daniel's brother.

Scope and Content

Typescript draft of a memoir by Col. Dan Bryan of events in Ireland leading up to and during World War II. Topics discussed include espionage, particularly links between IRA and German spies; raiding of houses harbouring German aliens; possible invasion of Ireland by Germany; intelligence gathering activities; code-breaking led by Dr Richard Hayes; coast-watching; and the Emergency. Also includes a transcript of a conversation between Colonel Bryan and Dr Eunan O' Halpin.

• Access:  Available by appointment to holders of a UCD Archives reader's ticket. Produced for consultation in original format. Original material will be retrieved at 11am and 2pm only. 
• Language: English.

Further collections of Colonel Daniel Bryan's material can be found in the Military Archives.