An Cosantóir

| 23 www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE almost constant state of providing a fire support capability to Irish units in places such as Lebanon, Chad, and Liberia. Despite it not being required to provide such a lethal level of support since Ireland's involvement in ONUC, such a capability remains essential. The Artillery Corps has also provided surveillance and observation skills on deployments to include operating UAVs for target acquisition, surveillance, and information gathering. Artillery UAVs were used in the surveillance of armed groups during the Defence Forces deployment to EUFOR Chad in a robust protection of civilian's role which also included the provision of a mortar battery for force protection. CONTEMPORARY ARTILLERY Since the US led invasion of Iraq and the War in Afghanistan the attention that artillery received in the minds of the planners and military theorists of the western world seemed to dwindle. A focus on counter insurgency operations led to a relative side-lining of artillery as an essential element in a lot of western militaries occurred. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has changed that perception utterly. With the presence of air defence artillery within both sides on the battlefield, fire supported provided by air assets has been significantly limited. Artillery fire also plays a central role in Russian military doctrine. As a result, the war has developed into a war of duelling Artillery units. The vast majority of casualties in the war are the result of indirect fire, and the war has even resulted in the development of new Artillery tactics. CENTENARY PARADE Serving and retired gunners arrived to Collins Barracks on the morning of 01 June, where equipment and weapons displays were setup by 1 BAR. At 1140hrs on 01 June 2023 the parade formed up on Collins Barracks Square in the same numbers as on the first parade of the first Artillery Battery on 23 March 1923. After the arrival of dignitaries, speeches were made by Brig Gen Ger Buckley, the Army's most senior Gunner, and by the Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Sean Clancy. During his speech the Chief of Staff highlighted the contributions made by the Artillery Corps throughout the 100 years of its existence, and he complimented the Corps on its unique traditions and esprit de corps. He also highlighted the resurgence in the relevance of Artillery on the modern battlefield, where Ukraine has shown how essential it is for an armed force to have credible fire support and air defence capabilities, including counter UAS capabilities. Wreaths were laid by the Chief of Staff, GOC 1 Brigade, Brig Gen Brian Cleary, and RSM (Retd) Podge O'Driscoll, followed by one minutes silence. The minute of silence was ended with the firing of a ceremonial 25 pounder howitzer crewed by 1 BAR and a pipers lament. Last post was then played and the National Flag was raised from half-mast to full-mast. Finally, reveille was played and the parade was dismissed. Serving and retired gunners then retired to Collins Barracks' dining facility for refreshments and a catch up. That night the Artillery Club hosted a dinner in Collins Barracks Officers Mess for serving and retired gunner officers to celebrate the centenary of the establishment of the Artillery Corps, and also the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Artillery Club. After 100 years, the unique bond that connects serving and former members of the Artillery Corps continues and was shown to be in good health on 01 June 2023. www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 23 RSM Michael Ronayne on Parade with Troops from 1 BAR and 2 BAR Lt Col John Prendergast, OC 2 BAR, Takes Over as Parade Commander 5 Pdr Ceremonial Gun Ready to Mark the End of the Minutes Silence RSM (Retd) Podge O'Driscoll Laying a Wreath in Remembrance of Deceased Gunners

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