An Cosantóir

Father and Son's MRE Pte Cox and Pte Cox Sgt Jinx and Pte Jinx The unit's mission readiness exercise (MRE) put commanders and soldiers through a demanding series of scenarios based on the current situation in Lebanon and potential threats that may be encountered in the mission area. Scenarios involving simulated explosive strikes, air mobile helicopter drills, and anti-ambush tactics using a variety of advanced weapons systems, detailed planning and traditional peacekeeping methods. D COS (Ops) Maj Gen Ralph James visited the exercise and said, "I have been very impressed by the standard of training, professionalism and leadership that I have witnessed in today's robust and realistic exercise. I know that this unit will continue the long and proud tradition of Irish soldiers putting themselves in harms way for peace and security overseas." The battalion, commanded by Lt Col Dave Dignam, a native of Dublin currently based in Donegal, will occupy a new post situated south of the village of At Tiri. The post will be renamed Camp Shamrock and is approximately 7km from the Blue Line that defines the boundary between Lebanon and Israel. | 19 Pte Martin Ward is a member of the 107 IrishFinn Bn. Pte Ward's father, Cpl Peter Ward, was killed serving with UNIFIL in 1992 when his checkpoint came under fire from Hezbollah gunmen. Martin was only six at the time. Martin's uncle, Pte William O'Brien, had also lost his life while serving with UNIFIL in 1986. Also serving with the Bn is Pte Owen McLoughlin (28 Inf Bn). Pte McLoughlin's father, Cpl Dermot McLoughlin, was killed by Israeli tank fire in Lebanon while serving with UNIFIL in 1987. Prior to their departure the battalion was reviewed by the Minister of State for Defence, Paul Kehoe TD, in Custume Bks, Athlone. The Minister said he was, "again reminded of the great pride we can take in all that the Defence Forces have done, and continue to do, as peacekeepers throughout the world." He told the troops that in continuing the work undertaken by 106 Inf Bn, serving as part of a combined Irish/Finnish battalion, "they will be making a valuable contribution to the peace and security in the region." The 107 IrishFinn Bn deployed to Lebanon in mid-November, taking over duties from 106 IrishFinn Bn, who had been serving with UNIFIL since May. Cpl Finnerty and Pte Finnerty Capt Keane interviews Comdt O'Riordan Three friends: Pte Keady, Cpl Tobin and Pte Brady www.military.ie the defence forces magazine

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