An Cosantóir the official magazine of the Irish Defence Forces and Reserve Defence Forces.
Issue link: https://digital.jmpublishing.ie/i/32936
book review 37 | BOOK REVIEW No White Feather AFVs in Irish Service Since 1922 From the National Army to the Defence Forces Author: Ralph A Riccio Illustrator: Rodolfo Ciuffoletti Publisher: Mushroom Models Publications (mmpbooks.com) ISBN: 978-83-61421-19-1 Price: €30.50 Although we have never had large numbers of armoured vehicles, we have employed a wide and diverse variety of tanks and armoured cars over the years, from British WWI vehicles through to South African tactical armoured cars currently in service. This book by Ralph A Riccio provides a comprehensive survey of all the armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs) that have been used by the Defence Forces since 1922. These extend from Rolls-Royce armoured cars and British WWII tanks to the very latest AFVs in service. The author has drawn on many expert sources to tell the story of armour in Ireland and his book contains full technical details, fine illustrations (with many rare photos), 1:35 scale side views, and details of colour schemes and markings of the many armoured cars, personnel carriers and tracked vehicles. Author: By Seán Ó Foghla Publisher: Book Republic (bookrepublic.ie) ISBN: 978-1-907221-06-4 Price: €25.00 Format: Hardback In his debut book No White Feather, Seán Ó Foghla recounts the story of his years in the Irish army, including his UN service in the Belgian Congo, with a mixture of fondness and objectivity. He shines a light on the real meaning of overseas service for young Irish men of a generation ago, many of whom had never before set foot outside their home country. Seán was a proud member of ‘A’ Company, 35 Infantry Battalion, serving with ONUC (United Nations Operation in the Congo) in 1961. Drawing on his personal experiences, letters and diaries (including a map, a diagram and 25 pictures), he offers a unique insight into the harsh realities of daily life for the Irish soldier during those uncertain and turbulent years. He witnessed many major events in the Congo, including the infamous battle for Jadotville. This book is a must-read account for anyone interested in Irish military history. No White Feather is sure to provide the reader with a greater understanding of the ethos that pervades the Irish army to this day, as well as the camaraderie and bravery that has always enabled our soldiers to “grasp the nettle of responsibility when the chips were down,” as Seán says. This is a story of adventure, friendship and the honourable tradition of the Irish army. Seán Ó Foghla was born in Nenagh in 1940. His early school years were spent in Kiladangan NS where a love of reading and writing were encouraged by the principal. Seán served with the Defence Forces for 30 years in two periods, from 1960 to1963 and from 1974 to 2000. In addition to 35 Inf Bn, he also served in the Congo with 38 Inf Bn. Still a soldier at heart Seán is an active member of the Irish UN Veterans Association (IUNVA). To purchase a copy of No White Feather call or email the author on 067-24589 / 087-2312800 or newwildgeese8@eircom.net or visit Ryan’s Book Shop, Friars St, Nenagh, Co Tipperary (067-31872). IRISH DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE