An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 29 What has been your standout memory from your career so far? There are so many experiences throughout my career, which stand out as great memories, my passing out parade, my first trip overseas, the first time I drove a Mowag with night vision, the first time I was orderly cook on my own, or when I played football against the UKAF. All the great friends I've made over the years, and all the laughs we've shared, too many to count. But if I was to pick just one stand out memory, from my whole time in the Defence Forces, it would be meeting my husband. This year we will be celebrating our 20th anniversary. It hasn't always been easy for us, especially when it comes to taking turns deploying overseas, but we have 2 great children who are really supportive. Can you tell us about representing the DF internationally? I was never really a sporty person until I joined the Defence Forces, but throughout my career, I became increasingly interested in sport and fitness. In 2024 I was part of the Defence Forces women's team who played the UKAF. A great experience and a very proud moment. In the last few years, I really got into running and managed to do well in my age category for the An Cosantóir 10k race, finishing 1st in 2024, and second in 2025. I was really fortunate to get offered a spot on the women's Cross Country team, which competed in Belgium at the end of last year. It was an amazing experience, something different from running the roads, and I learned a lot from the other members of the team. What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given? "You pack it, you carry it" in training the NCOs would say this all the time, and initially I just took this literally, but a Corporal told me after training, it's not just about what you put in your back pack, it's about what you put in yourself, it's about being prepared, with personal accountability. With mental health being so relevant now, it makes so much sense. If you pack negativity, that's what you'll carry, so I always try my best to pack as much positivity as I can carry. What is your favourite quote? "If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life" and I love what I do. What are your plans or goals for the future? From a professional point of view, I plan to complete the next catering conversion course. I am really looking forward to learning about how a field kitchen operates. I have also started training in my local Hyrox gym, and I would like to complete a Hyrox event this summer. What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self? I suppose knowing what I know now, and how my life has turned out since joining the army, the advice I would probably give my 18-year-old self is very simple, "Believe in yourself" When I was 18, I knew I wanted to join the army, but I didn't really have much of a plan beyond that, and like most young people I was filled with self-doubt, am I strong enough, smart enough, or even good enough to pass recruit training, and survive military life. Well, 21 years later I can confidently say that yes, I was strong enough, smart enough, and good enough, to not only get through recruit training, but to have had a deeply fulfilling career. The life I enjoy today, is due in no small part to having joined the Defence Forces. From a shy, and easily embarrassed 18-year-old girl, to the strong, and confident woman that I am today. Pictured at my graduation having completed the Culinary Arts Course in DKIT

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