An Cosantóir

30 PEOPLE OF THE DEFENCE FORCES This month we spoke to Private Nicky Lawless from 1 Cn Cois in Renmore, Galway. Nicky has come back into the Defence Forces recently, under the Re-enlistment of former members of the Defence Forces programme. "My name is Nicky Lawless and I'm from Galway. I grew up in town but I currently live in Athenry with my wife Róisín and two children Aedín and Darragh. Last October I returned to the Army, after sixteen years as "Honestly, it was a bit nerve wracking. I can't remember being that nervous when I walked into barracks as a young lad. I wasn't worried about my choice to return, more my ability. I suppose my age was on my mind. Sixteen years is a long time to be removed from anything but I was confident I made the right decision to get back into uniform. Luckily, I had two others start with me on the day and we had been in touch for a few weeks since the medicals and attestation. Everyone we met throughout the first week couldn't have been more welcoming. Of course there were high doses of friendly banter, but you'd be worried if you didn't get that. Upgraded kit and newer vehicles were the most noticeable changes since my day, but other than that everything about being in barracks felt right. Thankfully, we met plenty of familiar faces and everyone, regardless of rank, was generous with their time and information." "I think this is where I benefited the most from the Army. Everything I have done since I left, I have approached with belief that I can accomplish it or that Rank: Private Name: Nicky Lawless Unit: 1 Cn Cois Pte Nicky Lawless in his new uniform after re-enlistment Hi Nicky, Can you start by giving our readers a brief description of yourself? How did it feel to come back the first day? What were the values you feel you gained from being in the Defence Forces and how do you feel they stood to you on your time out? By Cpl Martin Bennett Photo by Cpl Martin Bennett and Pte Nicky Lawless v Nicky, camouflaged and on patrol in East Timor in 2002 a civilian and I am stationed in Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa. I turned forty in December, but I initially joined the Army as a fresh-faced twenty year old in 2001. My recruit training was held in Dún Uí Neill, Cavan between June and December and once our platoon passed out, the majority of us were transferred to 6 INF BN. In January 2002 I applied for East Timor selection and I was fortunate to serve as part of 9IRCON from June that year. After returning from overseas, I spent some time in Athlone before ultimately being transferred to Galway and 1 INF BN. I made the decision to leave the Army and return to college in 2004."

• Cover