Óglaigh na hÉireann / Irish Defence Forces

29/05/2026

For decades, Irish Peacekeepers have served with courage, professionalism, and compassion in some of the world’s most challenging environments. On International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, we honour the service and sacrifice of all those who have worn the blue beret in pursuit of peace on behalf of Ireland and the United Nations.

28/05/2026

On Tuesday, the 127th Infantry Battalion arrived home to and were met by family and friends after a 6 month deployment in UNIFIL.

Welcome home to all!

28/05/2026

On Tuesday, 26 MAY 26, the final chalk of the 127th Infantry Battalion arrived home following a challenging and demanding deployment with UNIFIL in South Lebanon.

25/05/2026

Today, the 25th of May, is Memorial Day in the United States of America. On this day, they remember US Servicemen and Woman who have died in service.

As part of the day, a plaque commemorating Irish born Corporal Patrick "Bob" Gallagher will be unveiled at the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial. The ceremony will be attended by Cpl Gallagher's comrades as well as his family, who have travelled from Ireland for the unveiling.

Cpl Gallagher, a native of of Ballyhaunis, County Mayo emigrated to Long Island, New York before enlisting in the Marine Corps. In 1966, Cpl Gallagher was awarded the Navy Cross after using his own body to shield his fellow Marines from a gr***de. Cpl Gallagher survived this heroic act, but was tragically killed in action days before his tour of duty was set to end.

Cpl Gallagher's legacy and bravery has been immortalised through the naming of an Arleigh Burke-class Destroyer, the USS Patrick Gallagher (DDG-127), which has just began its sea trials and soon active service in the US Navy.

23/05/2026

Recently, personnel from the Corps of Engineers conducted Engineer Specialist Search and Clearance (ESSC) training exercises, enhancing specialist search and clearance capabilities across a range of demanding operational environments.

Training activities included rope access operations in elevated structures, confined space search procedures, and the integration of advanced technologies including Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) systems. These exercises ensure ESSC personnel remain trained, agile, and prepared to operate effectively in complex and dynamic environments.

As Ireland prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026, ESSC capability will form an important element of the wider national security framework supporting high-profile Government and international engagements. The continued development of these specialist capabilities reinforces the Defence Forces’ readiness to support An Garda Síochána security operations and contribute to a safe and professionally delivered Presidency.

21/05/2026

20/05/2026

Ever wondered what the Army does? Let's Go.

16/05/2026

Chalk 1 of the 127th Infantry Battalion has returned home, in the coming weeks, the mission of the 127th Infantry Battalion with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) draws to a close following a challenging and demanding deployment in South Lebanon.

Throughout their deployment, the personnel of the 127th Infantry Battalion operated in an increasingly complex and volatile environment, carrying out their duties with professionalism, resilience and dedication. Despite the many challenges faced during the mission, the Battalion continued to uphold the highest standards of service while representing Ireland and Óglaigh na hÉireann with distinction on the international stage.

The men and women of the 127th Infantry Battalion demonstrated exceptional commitment in the service of peace and stability, reflecting great credit on themselves, their families and the Defence Forces.

15/05/2026

15/05/2026

On Thursday, 15 MAY 26, the first chalk of the 127th Infantry Battalion arrived home following a challenging and demanding deployment with UNIFIL in South Lebanon.

Throughout their deployment, personnel of the 127th Infantry Battalion operated in a complex and volatile environment, displaying professionalism, resilience and courage while representing Ireland and Óglaigh na hÉireann with distinction.