An Cosantóir

www.military.ie the defence forces magazine | 33 the IMP. In 1998, for example, the De- fence Forces and Civil Defence were asked to lead the afternoon procession into Rosary Square, led by Bishop Ray Fields. Another year, it was a privilege to see Lt Gen Dermot Earley, Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, lead- ing the pilgrimage. His presence gave a wonderful boost to the morale of all, but little did we know how short a time he had left in this life; ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. President Mary McAleese joined the military pilgrimage in 2008, taking part in all the ceremonies and introducing herself to the participants. The Civil Defence volun- teers treasure their copies of the group photo of that year taken with the president and her husband. On a lighter note there was the year when the flight home was delayed and Civil Defence volunteers were to the fore in helping to dispense the teas, coffees and refreshments – a role with which they were familiar from back home. Every year two events are the highlights of the pilgrimage for Civil Defence: the Anglophone Mass and the wreath-laying cer- emony at the Irish plot in the Cimetiere de Langelle. Civil Defence volunteers under Brian Gillan (Civil Defence officer, Westmeath), always help to organise the venues. At the Mass, they secure seat- ing for the dignitaries, provide stewarding around the Grotto and assist with the distribution of Holy Communion. At the cemetery, the Irish plot is roped off for the wreath-laying ceremony and Civil Defence volunteers secure access for the colour party, the band members and the dignitary who lays the wreath on behalf of the Defence Forces. Mention should be made on the subject of official support for the participation of Civil Defence with the Defence Forces on the military pilgrimage. At different times, the attendance has included the current Minister of State at the Department of Defence, Mr Paul Keogh TD, and many senior civil servants of the Department of Defence with responsibility for Civil Defence. It is recognised that the contacts between members of the Defence Forces and Civil Defence at the military pilgrimage can be of great benefit when back in Ireland and the need for cooperation arises in the course of an emergency response. Now, as Civil Defence looks forward to the 25th anniversary of their first participation in the IMP, the hope is that there will be many more to come. Carmel and Paddy in Lourdes with the IMP. Ceremony at the Holy Door in Lourdes led by Fr Robert McCabe during the Holy Year. Civil Defence and DF members prepare to help with the distribution of Holy Communion at the Anglophone Mass. Civil Defence and DF at the 'high Stations'.

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