An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 9 beyond purely military outputs. Sport has long been an integral part of military life, and our personnel have distinguished themselves in inter-unit, inter-service and national competitions across a range of disciplines. 1 Bde Arty Regt has had soldiers, officers & NCOs excel in a number of sports. These include representation at CISM World Championship events in soccer, rugby, boxing & athletics. 1 Bde Arty Regt has also had a runner up in the overall An Cosantóir 10km road race as well as age group winners. The Unit has had success at Hyrox London, with an age group winner also. 1 Bde Arty Regt has also excelled in Combat Sports, with members of the Unit competing at both national & international competitions in boxing, wrestling & samba wrestling. 1 Bde Arty Regt has consistently formed the back bone of 1 Brigade hurling, camogie, football & rugby teams, while also supplying players to the Defence Forces teams. These sporting successes foster resilience, teamwork and physical excellence — qualities directly transferable to operational effectiveness. Just as importantly, they strengthen bonds within the Regiment and enhance our visibility and reputation within the wider Defence Forces community. Equally significant is the Regiment's role within the local community. Through active engagement with Defence Forces Veterans' Associations, support to commemorative events, and outreach to local schools and sporting clubs, the Regiment reinforces the strong connection between the Defence Forces and the people it serves. Personnel regularly contribute time and expertise to community initiatives, educational visits and sporting activities, enhancing understanding of the Defence Forces' role while demonstrating our commitment to service beyond the barrack gates. This engagement strengthens Defence standing locally and reflects the pride the Regiment takes in being an integral part of the community. At the core of all these efforts is a commitment to uphold the values of the Defence Forces — loyalty, selflessness, moral and physical courage, integrity and professionalism. These values guide conduct in training, on operations, in sport and in community engagement. I was particularly proud to see a member of the Regiment recently recognised as a recipient of a Defence Forces Values Award. That honour reflects both individual character and the culture within the Regiment that encourages and sustains such standards. Having served elsewhere during my career, I have long been aware of the regard in which 1 Bde Arty Regt is held across the wider organisation. Returning after seven years away, I have witnessed experienced personnel step into greater responsibility while new members bring energy and fresh perspective. This combination ensures continuity of standards while embracing renewal. As Commanding Officer, my responsibility is to preserve that ethos while preparing the Regiment for future challenges. Our legacy is important, but it is our daily performance — in training areas, on parade, overseas, in competition and within our local community — that truly defines us. Looking ahead, I do so with confidence. The qualities that first inspired me as a young officer remain firmly embedded in 1 Bde Arty Regt today. To command a Regiment distinguished not only by operational excellence, but also by sporting achievement, strong community engagement and steadfast adherence to Defence Forces values, is both the honour of my career and a testament to the enduring strength of its people. The core task of 1 BAR is Artillery Competence 1 BAR An Cosantóir Team 2024

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