An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 9 BY SGT WAYNE FITZGERALD PHOTOS BY ARMN SAM GIBNEY O n the 26th June 2019, ANSAC (Army, Naval Service, Air Corps) Credit Union held a celebration of its 25th anniversary at its offices in Amiens Street, Dublin 1. (See last month's issue for the full story of ANSAC's establishment and history.) ANSAC's current chairman, Ken Holland, a member of the Defence Forces and a volunteer on the ANSAC board, began the occasion by welcoming those in attendance, which included serving and retired members of the Defence Forces who had served as volunteers with ANSAC over the last 25 years. Defence Forces Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Mark Mellett DSM was amongst a group of invited guests, along with Fr Séamus Madigan (Head Chaplain to the Defence Forces) and Mr Gerry Thompson (president of the Irish League of Credit Unions). Responding to an invitation to say a few words, ANSAC's first CEO, DF veteran Martin Cosgrave, recalled the work the volunteer work group did in the early days, thanking them all and remembering those who have since passed on. He also thanked the civilian staff who have worked with the organisation, especially Rachel Kearns and Gillian Dunne, ANSAC's first civilian employees, of whom Martin admitted: "We wouldn't be here without them." Vice Admiral Mellet acknowledged the great service PDFORRA had carried out by setting up and providing this hugely important facility to Defence Forces members. Recognising the difference between aspirations and achievements, the chief of staff said: "We all go through life with great ideas – congratulations to PDFORRA for achieving this one… We are proud to have people of this calibre in the Defence Forces… people who take value of looking after each other." Mr Gerry Thompson said: "We couldn't be happier to be congratu- lating ANSAC on this achievement – you saw a need and worked on it; and there's still a need." He added that the Irish League of Credit Unions had sent the ANSAC board formal acknowledgement. He also reiterated what Vice Admiral Mellett had said when he com- mented: "We can all float through life and draw a wage – I salute you for your hard work and initiative." After the speeches, Fr Séamus Madigan said a lovely prayer and then blessed the offices. The first ANSAC members were the initial board members, and ac- count No 1 owner, Mick Coughlin, was invited to cut the cake along with the first civilian member of staff, Rachel Kearns. An Cosantóir would like to congratulate ANSAC and wish the staff, board and members continued success. ANSAC 25 ANSAC staff, board members and invited guests celebrate ANSAC's 25th Anniversary. Fr Séamus Madigan with ANSAC's first account owner, Mick Coughlin who was also an initial board member. A number of original board members of ANSAC outside the Amiens St offices. BY JOHN MURPHY, CHAIRMAN 10 INF BN ASSOC O n Sunday the 9th June 2019, a large group from the 10 Infantry Battalion FCÁ Association, gathered in the Co Carlow Military Museum for the launch of their new tie and lapel pin. The new tie closely follows the colour pattern of the old 10 Inf Bn badge, which incorporates the colours of Wexford and Carlow. Those that served will also recall that the old 10 Inf Bn recruited and had centres in both Shilleagh and Tinahely in Co Wicklow. This meant that during its existence the battalion had the distinction of being a part of three different command/brigade areas, as in addition to its heartland of Wexford and Carlow it also covered south-west Wicklow and parts of Kildare. 10 Inf Bn was well known for being a friendly battalion, with most officers and NCOs knowing each other really well. The last few years up to the stand down of the FCÁ in September 2005 were intense training years, under the leadership of the unit's last commanding officer, Comdt Pat Healy. For many the 25th September 2005 came around too quick; it was a sad day when 10 Inf Bn was stood down, with a large group representing all five companies of the battalion in attendance at the final parade, held in Wexford Military Barracks. All former members of the battalion are most welcome and encouraged to join the 10 Inf Bn FCÁ Association. 10 Inf Bn pennants on Sunday, 25th September 2005. Lt John (Jack) Doyle AR (retd) and Comdt Rob McDonald (retd). The 10 Inf Bn tie and pin. www.facebook.com/groups/194042053978777/ or email harveyproductionsireland@gmail.com

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