An Cosantóir the official magazine of the Irish Defence Forces and Reserve Defence Forces.
Issue link: https://digital.jmpublishing.ie/i/685731
www.military.ie the defence forces magazine | 17 "I have just completed my leaving cert and I have a cousin in the DF. It took a while to change from civilian life, but when I felt comfortable it was sudden. The training is more mentally tough than physical, but your buddies help you through it. I found it hard being away from home, I never realised how much I appreci- ated civilian luxuries until I joined. I would like to go on and have a career in the ARW or be based in the 28 Inf Bn in Donegal." - rec Christopher mcCauley, Letterkenny, Co donegal "I was a maintenance worker/caretaker before joining. I've found the military change much busier and the training tough but enjoy- able. The most challenging part is keep- ing gear clean and our accommodation 'military' clean. I would like to serve in the Cavalry Corps." - rec Joseph Carroll, rathfarnam, dublin "I worked as a bartend before joining. I have found the change from civilian life challenging. The training is also challenging but rewarding, the physical stamina needed to complete some tasks is the most challenging part of training. I would like to do an NCOs course and to serve overseas."- rec Shauna Sutton, Greystones, Co Wicklow "Before joining I worked in a food factory. I found the change to army life difficult at times but well worth it. I am enjoying the training a lot. Jump- ing into a freezing cold river covered in mud has been my most challenging part of training so far. I hope to serve much longer than my 5 year contract."- rec Eamonn mcmanus, dundalk, Co Louth "I was a lifeguard before enlisting in the DF. So far I have found the change from civilian to military life enjoyable, tough and rewarding. The training is challenging and exciting. Getting up to military standard in areas such as time keeping and deportment are the most challenging. I want to work my way up the enlisted ranks in the Infantry Corps." - rec Edward Lynch, Bally- shannon, Co donegal "I was a gym instructor before joining the DF. I found the transition to military life a big change – in a good way. I have found the training to be very good. Most challenging part for me is the early morn- ings. I would like to do the ARW selection course and serve in the ARW."- rec dominic donegan, Cavan, Co Cavan Vox Pops