An Cosantóir

An Cosantóir This is the page of the AN COSANTÓIR - The Defence Forces Magazine. This magazine has been in existence since 1940.

Best wishes to Tpr Brian Kennedy, 1 ACS, as he represents Ireland at the upcoming World Boxing Championship in the M&S B...
29/08/2025

Best wishes to Tpr Brian Kennedy, 1 ACS, as he represents Ireland at the upcoming World Boxing Championship in the M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool.
We’re all behind you—best of luck in the ring!

Sum absolutely classss shots from our photographer yesterday at the final of the Cunningham Cup. Won out by the DFTC aft...
29/08/2025

Sum absolutely classss shots from our photographer yesterday at the final of the Cunningham Cup. Won out by the DFTC after extra time, with our very our own team member Cpl Hopper Kenny receiving the MOTM award 💪💪 Both our photographer and him played a blinder 😊😊😊

For today’s PODF we catch up with last years winner of the An Cosantóir 10k, Capt Elizabeth Carr. Registration for this ...
28/08/2025

For today’s PODF we catch up with last years winner of the An Cosantóir 10k, Capt Elizabeth Carr.
Registration for this years event is now open and the link is in our bio.

Can you give us an update on how your running has been going since last years event?
“I’ve been pretty consistent with my running, apart from one or two niggles, since last years event. My main sport is Triathlon so running would only make up part of my training schedule. Running is my preferred sport, so I’ve been enjoying the training and jumping into lots of different distance races over the last while just to keep things interesting.”

How is your training going at the minute and what does a weekly schedule currently look like?
“So my weekly schedule is about balancing the three disciplines of triathlon, which can be challenging, but I really enjoy the variety in that. My schedule wouldnt change a huge amount week to week - it would usually consist of 4/5 swim sessions, 3/4 bike sessions and 4 run sessions, with varied intensity between them all, trying to make sure you’re also recovering well.”

What is your favourite thing about competing in the An Cosantóir 10k?
“I love the atmosphere up in the park on race day. While I’ll always be competitive racing the event, it’s also just a great opportunity to meet and catch up with people you mightn’t get to see very often.”

What is your standout memory from all your times competing in the event?
“My stand out memory would have to be my very first year running the event. I had only just started cadet training a few weeks, and was given the opportunity to run the individual race. I was just delighted for the day out but also ended up winning the event.”

Favourite T-Shirt so far?
“The new t-shirt is looking very slick👀”

Any pre race superstitions?
“I try and stay away from having fixed ideas/superstitions before races if I can. I’ve been in so many scenarios pre race nationally and internationally, where lead ups have been far from ideal, and I’ve had to change plans and adapt a lot. I’ll always do the same warm up, and try as much as I can to have the same pre race foods.”

People of the DF - Naval Service SeriesRank and name: Leading EA BrowneYears of service: 6 yearsCurrent role: Electrical...
26/08/2025

People of the DF - Naval Service Series

Rank and name: Leading EA Browne
Years of service: 6 years
Current role: Electrical Artificer

Can you give us a brief description of your career so far?
“I joined in 2019, starting as a Mechanician on the LÉ William Butler Yeats P63. I then transitioned to Electrical Artificer (EA) training. During my degree, I also went to the Curragh and qualified as an Armament Artificer Instrumentation (AAI). I completed Electronic Engineering in Munster Technological University, topping my class and achieving the Academic Excellence Award. I recently just completed the NCO’s course, and I’m currently on EA4 to fully qualify me as an EA and will then join P64 LE George Bernard Shaw.”

What is the best thing about your being in the naval service?
“The constant learning and the sheer variety of experiences are truly the best aspects. Every day at sea is different with new challenges arising every minute, between exercises such as Damage Control and Fire Fighting, to Action Stations and Helo Ops. This, combined with the technical challenges of my EA role and the camaraderie among the crew, makes every day fulfilling.”

What inspired you to join the Navy?
“Since I was a child, I’ve always been drawn to the Navy. I don’t know why, but I always wanted to join. This early aspiration, combined with the promise of a dynamic career that blended technical work with adventure and a sense of purpose, inspired me to serve.”

What is your stand out memory from your career so far?
“My standout memory is definitely the NCO’s Course. It was a pivotal experience, truly shaping me into a leader. Getting through it together with all the lads created an incredible bond and a lasting sense of shared achievement.”

What advice would you give someone considering a career in the Navy?
“I’d advise them to embrace the challenge and be open to continuous learning. The Navy offers incredible opportunities for personal and professional growth, but it requires a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.”

What is your favourite quote?
“This too shall pass.”

*TSHIRT/RACE POST*ANNOUNCEMENT⚠️We’re delighted to announce this year’s winning entry for the An Cosantóir T-shirt Compe...
22/08/2025

*TSHIRT/RACE POST*
ANNOUNCEMENT⚠️

We’re delighted to announce this year’s winning entry for the An Cosantóir T-shirt Competition!

This year’s t-shirt was designed by Capt John McCandless (28 Inf Bn RDF) and includes design elements from entries by Pte Ruairí Fry (12 Inf Bn) and Comdt Shane Walsh (2 Bde Eng Gp) who will receive merchandise goodie bags 💪

We had over 30 creative entries which we narrowed down to 3 and then finally.. 1 😊
Thank you to everyone for your submissions 😊

The t-shirt will be available in short sleeve, long sleeve and a limited edition!

The An Cosantóir 2025 10k Road Race will take place on 01 OCT. The race is open to all PDF, RDF, DOD and Retired Personnel.

Click the registration link below/in the bio to sign up!

https://myrunresults.com/events/an_cosantoir_10k_and_5k_walk/5859/details

DF BJJDF BJJ TEAM is on the rise! 💪 They’re crushing it with Coach Tim Murphy and training at one of Ireland’s top gyms....
21/08/2025

DF BJJ

DF BJJ TEAM is on the rise! 💪 They’re crushing it with Coach Tim Murphy and training at one of Ireland’s top gyms. If you’re keen to join or learn more, here’s what to do:
- *Get in touch with your local rep*: Hit them up to find out more about the team and how to get involved.
- *Check the training schedule*: See when and where they’re rolling and come check out a session.

New members and returning athletes welcome! Don’t be shy, reach out and get involved!

People of the DFThe week to coincide with the launch of the 2025 An Cosantóir 10k Road Race we are catching up with the ...
21/08/2025

People of the DF

The week to coincide with the launch of the 2025 An Cosantóir 10k Road Race we are catching up with the 3 in a row winner 🥇

Name: Sgmn Josh O’Sullivan-Hourihan
Unit: 1CIS

Can you give us an update on your running since last year’s event?
“Since last year’s event, I’ve maintained consistent training with a focus on orienteering rather than road racing. I’ve avoided injuries, illness, or major setbacks, stacking solid weeks of training. My main goal has been peaking for the European Orienteering Championships next week in Belgium, so my workouts have been tailored for that, emphasizing map-based training and specific sessions. I’m thrilled to represent Ireland again and compete in all three disciplines.”

How’s your training going, and what’s your current weekly schedule like?
“Training is going well, and I’m in a great rhythm. I typically cover 140km per week, including at least two key workouts—short or long intervals, threshold runs, or high-intensity orienteering sessions—alongside plenty of easy runs.”

What’s your favorite thing about competing in the An Cosantóir 10km?
“I love the lively atmosphere around the barracks before and after the race. It’s always a competitive event with a great vibe.”

What’s your standout memory from competing in this event?
“Crossing the finish line alone to win in 2022 stands out. I ran a PB that day, which gave me a huge confidence boost moving forward.”

Favorite race t-shirt so far?
“Definitely last year’s!”

Any pre-race superstitions?
“Not superstitions, but I stick to consistent pre-race routines. I always do the same run the day before a race, a habit I’ve kept since 2022, and I have a specific dinner the night before.”

An Cosantóir 10k Road Race announcement!!!Keep an eye 👁️ on our page this week for the launch of the An Cosantóir 10k Ro...
18/08/2025

An Cosantóir 10k Road Race announcement!!!

Keep an eye 👁️ on our page this week for the launch of the An Cosantóir 10k Road Race and also…… the big reveal of this years T-Shirt 🤗
This years T-Shirt design was put out to our followers as a competition and we had so many brilliant entries so we are very excited to share the winning design with you 🤗🤗 and thank you very for to everyone that participated 😊
So keep and eye on our page this week for the official launch of the Race and the T-Shirt for 2026. 🤗🤗
The Registration link will also be going live with the launch 😊

People of the DF - Naval Service SeriesRank and name: S/Lt Niall Kavanagh (Due to be promoted to LT (NS) in July 2025)Ye...
18/08/2025

People of the DF - Naval Service Series

Rank and name: S/Lt Niall Kavanagh (Due to be promoted to LT (NS) in July 2025)
Years of service: 8
Current Role: Gunnery Officer, LÉ Aoibhinn

Can you give us a brief description of your career so far?
“I joined the 57th Naval Cadet Class in Sept 2017 and was commissioned in 2019. As an Officer Under Training (OUT) I served across various different ships and offices before qualifying as a Naval Watchkeeper and being posted to various appointments since that time, such as Navigation Officer of LÉ Róisín, MA to OCNSC and I was previously also Navigation Officer of LÉ Aoibhinn”

What is your current role and can you give us a brief description?
“I’m the Gunnery Officer of LÉ Aoibhinn. I’m responsible for the weapons, ammunition, ordnance and pryos onboard, as well as being one of the 3 Watchkeepers onboard, taking charge of the bridge in 4 hour watches and I’m also the divisional officer of the Seamens branch onboard”

What is the best thing about being in the naval service?
“There are a tonne. My favourite thing, however, is the opportunity to see the world. I’ve been to a lot of far flung places through my career that I’d have otherwise never gotten to visit, such as Lebanon, Singapore, Fiji and The Solomon Islands”

What inspired you to join the Navy?
“I’m from a navy family. My dad, his brothers and my siblings all served and my mother was born and raised on the Naval Base in Haulbowline”

What is the most challenging thing about your job?
“I have two young, beautiful children at home, so spending extended periods of time away from them is certainly difficult”

What advice would you give someone considering a career in the navy?
“Go for it. I love my job, and I can say that honestly. I’ve had some of the best experiences, made some of my closest friends and travelled the world, all while getting paid for it”

What is your favourite quote?
“Homey, I really don’t think this navy thing is a good idea.” - Marge Simpson

People of the DFName: Private Paul MulkerrinService: 18 yearsCurrent Role: Transport Section, 1 Cn Cois, Dún Uí Mhaoilío...
14/08/2025

People of the DF

Name: Private Paul Mulkerrin
Service: 18 years
Current Role: Transport Section, 1 Cn Cois, Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Galway

Can you give a brief description of your career so far:
“Since joining straight from school, I’ve served proudly in the Irish Defence Forces. My career has included Overseas Service, security duties around Ireland, and working in the Transport Section. I’ve represented 1 Cn Cois in both GAA football and soccer, and now also contribute in management roles for our teams. I’m passionate about sport, leadership, and helping others, both in and outside the DF.”

What made you decide to join the DF?
“I wanted to see the world, challenge myself, and learn new skills within a respected organisation. The DF offered me all of that and more.”

What are your hobbies outside the DF?
“I’m heavily involved in GAA football, soccer, hillwalking, the gym, swimming, coaching, and travelling. I manage St Michael’s GAA Club and have coached under-16, minor, under-19, and junior teams — with the goal of managing the senior team in the future.”

What is your favourite memory from the DF?
“Serving overseas with the Irish Defence Forces, managing the 1 Cn Cois GAA football and soccer teams, and the friendships I’ve made along the way.”

What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
“Believe in yourself completely. Don’t wait for the ‘perfect time’ to take a chance — it doesn’t exist. The best opportunities come when you step out of your comfort zone, so take them.”

What is your favourite quote?
“Trust the process”

What advice would you offer to someone considering a career in the DF?
“The Irish Defence Forces is a great organisation with huge opportunities — from sport and education to travel and new skills. Every day is different, and you get to work alongside a variety of people. I would recommend this career path to anyone willing to embrace the challenges and make the most of the opportunities.”

What a lovely lovely day we had on Saturday at for the DF Overseas Family Support Day 🥰🥰 Thank you soooo much to everyo...
12/08/2025

What a lovely lovely day we had on Saturday at for the DF Overseas Family Support Day 🥰🥰 Thank you soooo much to everyone who made the journey and took part in the event 😊 You added so much to the day and we hope the little ones were happy with their goodie bags 🤗🤗 have a
lovely week and hopefully we will see you all again soon 🤗🤗 please tag or share any pics if you recognise someone 👍

People of the DF – Naval Service SeriesRank and Name: Lt (NS) Jason CrokeYears of Service: 14Current Role: Officer in Ch...
11/08/2025

People of the DF – Naval Service Series

Rank and Name: Lt (NS) Jason Croke
Years of Service: 14
Current Role: Officer in Charge, Naval Service Diving Section (NSDS)

Can you describe your career so far?
“I joined the Naval Service in 2011 and commissioned in 2013. My early career involved operational roles at sea, overseas, and ashore, but military diving became my focus. I qualified as a Naval Diver in 2018, advanced through qualifications, and now serve as Officer in Charge of the NSDS.”

What is your current role?
“As OiC NSDS, I lead the Defence Forces’ subsea capability, overseeing operational readiness, training, and development. I manage diving standards, coordinate with partners, and advance key projects. It’s demanding but rewarding.”

What’s the best thing about your role or the Naval Service?
“The best thing is the people. I work with a skilled, tight-knit team where trust and professionalism are key. The diving unit’s camaraderie is uniquely rewarding.”

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?
“The biggest challenge is maintaining capability with limited resources and high operational demands. Balancing diverse tasks like search and recovery or explosive ordnance disposal with training and safety requires constant focus.”

How has serving in the Navy shaped you?
“It’s made me resilient, adaptable, and mission-focused. The Navy teaches teamwork, discipline, and accountability, pushing you to lead in complex settings and grow professionally and personally.”

What advice would you give someone considering a Navy career?
“Do it. Embrace every opportunity—sea, overseas training, or new challenges. The Naval Service offers unique experiences and skills that last a lifetime.”

What’s your favourite quote?
“Fortune favours the prepared mind.” — Louis Pasteur

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Defence Forces Magazine

We are the Defence Forces Magazine. A magazine by members for members of the Irish Defence Forces. We have been in existence since 1940 and we publish 10 issues per year. You can subscribe for 30 Euro a year for a printed copy of the magazine or 10 Euro per year for a digital copy of the magazine