An Cosantóir

An Cosantóir February 2016 www.dfmagazine.ie 22 | C omdt Tom McGrath, OC 2 Brigade Training Centre (Dublin/Athlone) wrote in the passing out parade booklet, "On this special occasion I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to every member of the 50th Poten- tial NCO Course on your successful completion of this course of training. It is a demanding test of your mental, physical and psychological abilities, designed to develop the qualities of leadership and provide the knowledge neces- sary to qualify you to hold the rank of Corporal in the Defence Forces. As junior leaders it is essential that you appreciate that Defence Forces leadership doctrine is values-based. You have a duty to ensure that the core values of respect, loyalty, selflessness, physical courage, moral courage and integrity are clearly recognised and understood and within your professional capacity, developed and nurtured. The challenge, which you are all well capable of meeting, is to lead in an organisation that is embarking on transformation following reorganisation. This is a proud day for your family and friends and I would like to welcome them to Cathal Brugha Bks, Dublin for this Passing-Out parade. It is only with our families continued support, encouragement and understanding that we are in a position to undergo such courses of training or indeed deploy at home or on overseas service. I would like to express my gratitude to the permanent and attached staff of 2 Brigade Training Centre, Cathal Brugha Bks, Dublin. Your dedi- cation to training junior leaders of the required calibre and maintaining the highest professional standards throughout is admirable and testa- ment to your competence and professional pride as military instructors. I would also like to thank the staff of 2 Brigade Headquarters, Officer Commanding Cathal Brugha Bks and all 2 Brigade and indeed Defence Forces Units without whose assistance and support the course could not have been conducted. Finally to our 50th Potential Nco's, the Defence Forces rely on the highest standards of leadership at every level and as junior leaders it is incumbent upon you to promote the Defence Forces values. Comhgaird- eas agus go n-eiri libh go leir." 35 students successfully passed the challenging and arduous 21 weeks Potential NCO Course that had 25 military subjects and 21 mandatory tests to pass, ran in the 2 BTC Dublin in 31st July 2015. "As Ord Sgt you are responsible for everything the platoon do (and fail to do). The thought of this frightened me. But you have to take charge, give orders and live with the consequences of your actions." Pte Cormack Coyle, 7 Inf bn "I've always felt that females in the Defence Forces are always very determined. Being mostly male orientated means that we need to push ourselves that extra little bit to keep up with the troops." Pte Denise byrne, Equit Sch PHOTOS By CPL TONy FARRELL

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