An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 27 S unday 10th November 2019 was Remembrance Sun- day - the day when most countries remember their military personal who died in the line of duty. In Dublin's Cathal Brugha Barracks it was also the day that Reserve Defence Forces (RDF) units based there held their annual mass to honour their deceased members. The day in ques- tion was fine and sunny; several retired members associations were also invited to this yearly event, which takes place in the Garrison Church and the adjoin- ing Niemba Square. Many former RDF members always take this annual opportunity to meet old friends and colleagues. For this year's event 7 Inf Bn tasked the battalion's C Coy (RDF) with provid- ing a Honour Guard for the ceremony. The preparation by C Coy began several weeks earlier, with arms drill practice taking the fore, service dress uniforms were worn and inspected to make sure they were up to standard. The Company requested and were granted the use of cer- emonial steyr rifles for the drill, these very clean and present- able rifles were used before in past honour guards by our comrades in D Coy (RDF), but this was the first time that C Coy soldiers would use them in a ceremonial task. Well over 100 guests turned up on the day, and afterwards refreshments were served in the dining complex. This type of ceremonial tasks are part and parcel of been in a military organisation, indeed foot drill is probably the first ever type of training undertaking by any soldier who joins any army or other military service. The original purpose of drill was to enable a commander to move a body (unit) of soldiers from one battlefield location to another, while holding its most efficient fighting formation. Drill itself, be it foot or rifle drill, develops discipline and teaches attention to detail, both as an individual and as a member of a team. Drill instils a sense of unity by requiring soldiers to obey orders as one unit of troops. During a drill ceremony a soldier may spend what feels like an eternity standing motionless to attention, sometimes in very cold or damp weather. But this motionless non moving drill also provides the basis for a tactical battlefield use - it teaches a soldier to remain quiet still and motionless for long time periods, which can minimize the chances of been heard or seen by the enemy. Good drill also enhances unit pride; it makes troops look well trained and efficient, and will always impress the public watching the drill movements. Good units carry out good drill, and all units should aspire to be their best at this age-old skill. enhances unit pride, it makes troops look well trained and efficient, and will always impress the public watching the drill movements. Good units carry out good drill, and all units should aspire to be their best at this age old skill. REPORT & PHOTOS BY CQMS MICHEAL BENNETT (AR), 7 INF BN

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