The Irish Defence Forces Podcast

Irish Defence Forces Soccer

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:29:23 GMT

Episode Six of the series turns its focus to Defence Forces Soccer, highlighting the role sport plays in developing leadership, teamwork, and professionalism across the organisation.

In this episode, we explore the recent leadership evening delivered with the Irish U-21 national team, where Defence Forces personnel conducted team building exercises and shared insights on leadership, resilience, and performing under pressure. The discussion reflects on the value of collaboration between elite sport and the military, and how shared experiences can inspire the next generation of athletes and leaders.

The conversation also looks ahead to upcoming Defence Forces soccer tournaments and the range of development opportunities available to personnel interested in advancing their involvement in the game. From coaching pathways to refereeing courses, the episode outlines how members can build their skills while contributing to the continued growth of soccer within the organisation.

Along the way, participants share their own experiences of playing and supporting Defence Forces soccer, offering a personal perspective on the camaraderie, competition, and pride that comes with representing the organisation on and off the pitch.

#ÓglaighnahÉireann #DefendOurState #IrishDefenceForces

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Defence Forces Central Medical Unit

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:16:40 GMT

Episode Five turns the spotlight on the Central Medical Unit. In this episode, we explore how Defence Forces medical personnel work in close partnership with the Health Service Executive to respond to 999 emergency calls, providing frontline clinical care when and where it is needed most.

From rapid response taskings to seamless integration with civilian ambulance services, the discussion highlights the professionalism, adaptability, and clinical expertise that Defence Forces medics bring to every call. We examine the training, coordination, and operational readiness required to operate in high-pressure environments, ensuring patients receive timely and effective care.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the dedication and compassion of the men and women of the Central Medical Unit as they stand ready to support communities across Ireland.

#ÓglaighnahÉireann #DefendOurState #IrishDefenceForces

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Infantry Weapons Wing

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:01:41 GMT

Episode Four of this series turns its focus to the Infantry Weapons Wing (IWW), examining the pivotal role it plays within the Infantry School and across the wider organisation. This episode explores how the IWW drives excellence in marksmanship, weapons instruction, and tactical development.

Through our discussion, the episode highlights the IWW’s responsibility for delivering specialist weapons courses, developing instructors, and preparing personnel for upcoming competitions that showcase skill, discipline, and professionalism. It also looks ahead to future projects and initiatives designed to enhance capability, modernise training, and strengthen interoperability across units.

Listeners will gain insight into the expertise, precision, and commitment of IWW personnel who work behind the scenes to ensure that Irish Defence Forces soldiers are trained to the highest standard.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Air Corps Emergency Aeromedical Service

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 09:20:35 GMT

Episode Three turns its focus to the Emergency Aeromedical Service (EAS) of the Irish Defence Forces Air Corps, exploring the critical role it plays in supporting the State. This episode examines the capability, training and coordination required to deliver rapid aeromedical response in time-critical situations. Through expert discussion, it highlights the professionalism, adaptability and commitment of Air Corps personnel who provide lifesaving support in emergency situations, often operating in challenging environments where speed, precision and teamwork are paramount.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Manual Neutralisation Techniques

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:12:31 GMT

Episode Two explores Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operations with a focused discussion on the use of Manual Neutralisation Techniques (MNT). This episode provides insight into the specialist skills, training, decision-making, and risk management involved in employing hands-on techniques to safely render explosive threats safe. Through expert discussion, it highlights the professionalism, precision, and operational discipline required of EOD teams in complex and high-risk environments.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal participation in Exercise Northern Challenge

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT

This episode offers an insight into the Irish Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Teams' participation in Exercise Northern Challenge displaying specialist skills, international cooperation and operational readiness combined with a team performance that led to the Irish Defence Forces EOD Team being voted as the Best Team for 2025.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Interview with Defence Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy recently sat down with Captain Tony Smith of the Defence Forces Press Office to introduce himself as the newly appointed Defence Forces Chief of Staff. In this special iteration of the Defence Forces podcast the Chief of Staff discusses his career to date, current issues and provides insights into on going projects within the Defence Forces. Lieutenant General Mulcahy then goes on to discuss his plans and vision for the Defence Forces of the future.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

100 years of the Irish Air Corps

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 15:37:12 GMT

Finally, in episode 5 our participants discuss the outstanding service of Air Corps personnel throughout the last century. Their stories depict some of the most dangerous and challenging missions faced by our Air Corps crews. These stories are not without tragedy, and participants share first hand accounts of the difficult and unfortunate events that have led to the loss of Air Corps personnel during their service.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

100 years of the Irish Air Corps

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 15:36:41 GMT

In Episode four our discussion explores the variety of the job with the Irish Air Corps, from airshows to Hollywood movies. Many of our interviewees recount how witnessing air shows as children, influenced their decision have a carreer with the Air Corps. The epsiode also delves into the life on base at Casement Aerodrome and how sports and music were a integral part of Baldonnel life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

100 years of the Irish Air Corps

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 12:37:24 GMT

Episode 3 focuses on the aircraft manned by the Air Corps and its evolution over the past century, from the first Air Corps aircraft to the modern fixed wing planes and helis utlised today. The discussion examines their capabilities, functions and roles, in particular, OIC Air Corps Brigadier General O'Connor discusses the PC-12s and their vital role during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

100 years of the Irish Air Corps

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 14:27:48 GMT

Episode 2

Our discussion focuses on the induction process and the training of our personnel. Members share their own experiences of the application process and training they received during their military development and education, from recruit to airmen and airwomen. The episode recounts experiences from 1940's to current classes of cadets and recruits.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

100 years of the Irish Air Corps

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 16:00:00 GMT

As we mark the Air Corps 100 celebrations, this special series will provide a detailed history of the Air Corps and acknowledge the great work of its members throughout the last century. The Air Corps is rich in history and thanks to the hard work of our very own Air Corps historian Cpl Mick Whelan and the Military Archives Oral History Program, especially Noelle Grothier, they have been able to capture this information for generations to come.

Throughout the 5 Podcasts you’ll hear personal accounts about the key functions of the Air Corps, the personnel, the aircraft, the Air Corps and aviation community and finally the most significant moments throughout the history of the Air Corps.

Episode 1

The Air Corps has been the focal point and foundation for many aviation firsts here in Ireland. In episode 1, the topics of air ambulance missions, Search and Rescue (SAR) and maritime patrols provide an insight into day to day operations.

The current General Officer Commanding the Air Corps, Brigadier General Rory O’Connor, alongside various retired and serving members of the Air Corps recount their experiences and stories from their period of service. Their personal stories of the really interesting missions the Air Corps has taken part in, provide an authentic insight into this great organisation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Infantry Armoured Personnel Carrier Upgrade

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 11:53:54 GMT

In this, the 7th and final episode of Season 4 we speak to three members of the 1st Mechanised Infantry Company about the recent Infantry Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) upgrade

Lieutenant Shay Byrne (Acting APC Captain) , Sergeant Deccie Conroy (APC Sergeant), Private Evan Lynch (APC Crewman) talk to us about their experiences, both at home and overseas, operating our Infantry Armoured Personnel Carrier.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Infantry Ethos & The Infantry Corps

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 20:52:50 GMT

In today's episode we speak to Comdt Gavin Egerton and Lt Rory Behan about the the largest Corps of the Irish Army, the Infantry Corps. We discuss its history, its various roles and learn about the newly relaunched Infantry Ethos and Infantry Principles.

Read more about the Infantry Ethos: https://www.military.ie/en/who-we-are/army/army-corps/infatnry-corps/infantry_principles_and_history.pdf

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Army Equitation School

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 18:16:30 GMT

In this episode we speak to Lieutenant Colonel Tom Freyne (Officer Commanding the Army Equitation School), Second Lieutenant Michaeli Byrne (Riding Officer), Corporal Barry Kehoe (Groom and Acting Yard Sergeant) to discuss the career opportunities available in the Army Equitation School based in McKee Barracks, Dublin.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One Year in Office | Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Seán Clancy

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 09:28:52 GMT

On today’s show we speak to Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Seán Clancy and take a look back at some big items from his first year in office. Our conversation ranges from Defence Forces operations both at home and overseas, implementing recommendations from the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, organisation culture, recruitment and retention.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Naval Service Diplomatic Mission to the United States and Canada

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 11:24:42 GMT

In this episode we speak to Sub-Lieutenant Fergus Munday, Navigation Officer on the LÉ James Joyce, Chief Petty Officer James Lahive, Coxswain of the LÉ James Joyce, Able Mechanician Brian Molloy, Crew member of the LÉ James Joyce about the recent Naval Service diplomatic mission to the United States and Canada.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Soccer in the Defence Forces

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 08:00:38 GMT

In this episode we speak to Captain Richie Barber, Lieutenant Leah McEvoy, Battalion Sergeant Major Anthony Jinx and Private Shannon Thomas about the opportunities that serving members have to play, coach and referee soccer in the Defence Forces.

Time Stamps:

0.43: Guest Introductions

5.55: History of Soccer in the Defence Forces, FAI Affiliation & International Caps.

11.55: Men's Soccer

37.58: Women's Soccer

49.40: Domestic Tournaments

56.00: Refereeing

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My First 4 Years in the Irish Defence Forces

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 09:22:58 GMT

In the first episode of season 4 we speak to Corporal Cathy Jennings, a Crewman in 302 Squadron, Irish Air Corps. Cathy speaks to us about her first four years in the Irish Defence Forces, from joining the Army as a Recruit to becoming the first ever female Crewman in the history of the Irish Air Corps. In this time Cathy has also completed a tour of duty with UNDOF in Syria, became a qualified Emergency Medical Technician and she speaks to us about her experiences of having a job that “seems too good to be true”!

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eipeasóid Speisialta | An Chéad Phodchraoladh as Gaeilge

Tue, 31 May 2022 09:58:35 GMT

Ar chlár an lae inniu tá baill den Chomhairle Gaeilge againn agus pléifidh siad an ról is atá an Ghaeilge d’Óglaigh na hÉireann. Beidh aíonna speisialta acu a mhíneoidh cé chomh tábhachtach agus atá an teanga do stair agus d’oidhreacht na heagraíochta.

In this special bilingual episode we speak with Chomhairle Gaelige about the role and the importance of the Irish language within the Irish Defence Forces.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Episode | A tour through 100 years of Irish Military Aviation

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 08:00:17 GMT

On this special episode we are in Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel to speak with Corporal Michael Whelan, curator of the Irish Air Corps Museum, who brings us on a tour through 100 years of Irish Military Aviation. Corporal Whelan has served 32 years in the Irish Air Corps and is an expert in its history.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Episode | Actions at Elizabethville, Congo, 1961

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 07:00:48 GMT

On this special episode, we speak to Colonel (retd) George Kerton and Colonel (retd) Richard Heaslip about Irish involvement in actions in Elizabethville, Congo, in 1961. This episode focuses specifically on the background to the cessation of the province of Katanga from Congo, the Dilolo Patrol, Operation Rumpunch and Operation Morthar.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Episode | Defence Forces Gala Concert 2021

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 14:39:44 GMT

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the annual Defence Forces Gala Concert from the National Concert Hall Dublin in aid of the Defence Forces Benevolent Fund could not be held this year. Instead we have recorded a special Gala Concert Podcast featuring live archive recordings selected from ten years of the Gala Concert in addition to some new music specially recorded by the Army No. 1 Band and members of Band 2 Brigade. This special episode is hosted by Lieutenant Colonel Mark Armstrong, Director of the Defence Forces School of Music, with an introduction by General Officer Commanding 2 Brigade, Brigadier General Anthony Cudmore.

The running order of musical pieces is as follows:

1.39 The Voice of the Guns - K.J. Alford

5.30 Olympic Fanfare and Theme - J. Williams

9.40 Molly on the Shore - P. Grainger

14.06 The Dauntless Battalion - J. P. Sousa

17.15 Bugler's Holiday - L. Anderson

20.05 Highland Cathedral - U. Roever/M.Korb

23.43 Seventeen come Sunday - R. V. Williams

27.19 The Belle of the Ball - L. Anderson

30.34 Satin Doll - Duke Ellington

34.13 Hooray for Hollywood - N. Iwai

38.59 Radetsky March - J. Strauss

The Defence Forces Benevolent Fund is a registered charity operated from within the Defence Forces which provides assistance to personnel and their families who are experiencing difficult times. If you would like to make a donation to the Defence Forces Benevolent Fund please visit https://www.gofundme.com/dfgalaconcert

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP10 - Cyber Security in the Defence Forces

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 05:00:47 GMT

This episode features Captain Steve Keane, an officer in the Computer Incident Response Team of the Defence Forces Communications and Information Services Corps. Captain Keane gives an overview of the principles of cyber security and cyber security in the Defence Forces.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP9 - Army Ranger Wing SOF-Q

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 05:00:30 GMT

On this episode we welcome on the Course Sergeant for the 2021 Army Ranger Wing Special Operations Forces Qualification Course. The Course Sergeant talks about the make up of the ARW SOF-Q Course, and gives some advice on and experience of passing the course and becoming a member of the Army Ranger Wing. For operational security reasons the identity of members of the Army Ranger Wing are not made public.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP8 - Operation Pontus

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 05:00:25 GMT

This episode features an account of Naval Service participation as part of Operation Pontus in the Mediterranean Sea in response to the migrant crisis between 2015 and 2017. With Captain Kenneth Minihane, Lieutenant Commander Alan Flynn and Warrant Office Sean Duignam.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP7 - Military Fitness

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 05:00:12 GMT

In this episode we meet the School Commandant of the Defence Forces Physical Education School, Commandant James Leddingham, Sergeant Jim Maguire, a Physical Training Instructor in the School, former inter-county hurler and four time All-Star Lieutenant Paul Murphy, and Chief Defence Forces Physiotherapist, Eimear Ní Fhallúin, who are talking all things military fitness and sport within the Defence Forces.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP6 - Air Corps Helicopter Air Crew

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 05:00:19 GMT

On this episode we welcome on Airman Tadgh Weadick of 302 Squadron in the Irish Air Corps. A qualified winch operator, emergency medical technician and helicopter air crew, he shares his experiences on the job, from training, to working as part of the Emergency Aeromedical Service, to instructing students on the air crew course and beyond.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP5 - Pathfinders: The First Women in the Defence Forces

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 05:00:06 GMT

On this episode we welcome on Commandant (retired) Miriam McCann, Company Sergeant (retired) Bernadette Kelly and Corporal Paula Dowling, who share their experiences of joining the Defence Forces in the early eighties as woman joined the Defence Forces for the first time.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP4 - LÉ Roisín Mid-Life Refit

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 05:00:25 GMT

On this episode we welcome on Lieutenant (NS) Gary Jordon, project officers for the mid-life refit of the Irish Naval Vessel LÉ Roisín. Lieutenant (NS) Jordan covers the process of extending the life of LÉ Roisín into the next 15 years.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP3 - Air Traffic Control

Fri, 28 May 2021 05:00:26 GMT

On this weeks episode we welcome on Commandant Geraldine Browne, Officer Commanding 505 Squadron of the Irish Air Corps, who speaks about Air Traffic Control in the Irish Air Corps.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP2 - A Conversation with Minister For Defence, Mr Simon Coveney TD

Fri, 21 May 2021 05:00:05 GMT

Recorded on the 13th of May 2021, this episode features a conversation with Minister for Defence and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD. Our conversation ranges from Ireland's Defence architecture, to Defence Forces pay and conditions, to the Commission on the Defence Forces, overseas and beyond.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S3EP1 - The Army Engineer Graduate Programme

Fri, 14 May 2021 05:00:00 GMT

On the first episode in season 3 of the podcast we welcome onto the show Commandant Sharon McManus, Captain Brian Coughlan and Lieutenant Donal Clare, who speak about the process of becoming an engineer officer in the Defence Forces.

The episode covers the benefits of the programme, the Cadetship and the Engineer Young Officers while also outlining some of the principles and roles of engineers in the Defence Forces.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Edition - The Commission on the Defence Forces

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT

In this special edition of the podcast, we speak to Aidan O'Driscoll, former Secretary General of the Department of Justice and the Department of Agriculture, now Chairperson of the Commission on the Defence Forces.

We cover the work of the Commission, taking in its membership, terms of reference and the Commissions ongoing work thus far in 2021 and for the rest of the year.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christmas Special - DF Island Discs with the DF School of Music

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT

On this special Christmas Episode we welcome Lieutenant Colonel Mark Armstrong, Director of the Defence Forces School of Music onto the show, and discuss the history of military music and the Defence Forces School of Music, as well as listen to some musical pieces specially chosen by Lieutenant Colonel Armstrong, blending some Irish military and festive favourites.

Track List

Love came down at Christmas – Words by Christina Rosetti/Music by Mark Armstrong.
The Wearing of the Green – arranged by Colonel Fritz Brase and recorded in 1930 at the Theatre Royal, Dublin.
The Curragh of Kildare – Irish March arranged by Lieutenant Colonel Mark Armstrong - (composed during his first posting in 1989 to Band of the Curragh Command).
Mise Éire - Seán Ó Riada
The Frost is All Over – composed by Colonel Fritz Brase and recorded by RTE Lyric in 2018.
Sleigh Ride – Leroy Anderson - recorded by the Army No. 1 Band in Arbour Hill Church, Dublin, in December 2020.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch. To all our listeners, have a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

100 Years On - McKee, the Squad and Bloody Sunday

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 09:36:57 GMT

This Special 100th Anniversary Episode features Corporal (retd) Ronnie Daly, a historian, author and former member of the Defence Forces, and covers the life and death of Richard McKee, Peadar Clancy and Conor Clune, and the events surrounding the day that came to be known as Bloody Sunday on 21 November 1920 during the Irish War of Independence.

Ronnie served for 42 years in the Irish Defence Forces, is a member of the Michael Collins Society and is co-author of The Concise History of McKee Barracks.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP10 - Army Recruit Training

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 08:40:07 GMT

In this episode we welcome Sergeant Joe Meade and Corporal John Joyce onto the show to talk about recruit training in the Army. Both Sergeant Meade and Corporal Joyce are experienced in the process of training new general service inductees into the Army and cover drill, weapons training, fitness, tactical training, mental and physical robustness and more.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP9 - SPECTRE

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 08:00:23 GMT

This weeks episode looks at the Pilatus PC-12 Spectre aircraft, newly introduced to the fleet of the Irish Air Corps. Officer Commanding 104 Squadron, Commandant Mick Barcoe, takes us through the aircraft's characteristics, roles and operations.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP8 - REACHER

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 08:32:42 GMT

In this weeks episode we speak to a member of the Ordnance Corps, and Mr Padraig O'Connor from the Irish robotics company REAMDA, on the new Explosive Ordnance Disposal Robot, the REACHER, and on the history of remotely operated bomb disposal vehicles in Ireland.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP7 - EUTM Mali

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 09:59:18 GMT

In this episode we speak to Lieutenant Austin Doyle and Sergeant Valerie Cole about their experiences training Malian Armed Forces troops while serving with the European Union Training Mission (EUTM) to Mali.

Irish personnel have been involved with EUTM Mali since February 2013. EUTM Mali trains and advises the Malian Armed Forces - MAF - under the control of legitimate civilian authorities. This is done through the provision of training for the benefit of the Malian Armed Forces unit capabilities, training and advice in command and control, logistical chain and human resources and training on international humanitarian law, the protection of civilians and human rights.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP6 - Maritime Interdiction Operations

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 11:10:57 GMT

In this weeks episode we chat to Lieutenant Commander's Martin Brett, Mike Brunicardi and Jamie Cotter about their experiences conducting Maritime Interdiction Operations, and the process from genesis of an operation to gathering intelligence to actually boarding a civilian vessel in search of illegal arms, narcotics, people smuggling or other illegal acts.

Lieutenant Commander Brett is currently serving as 2ic of Shore Operations at Haulbowline Naval Base, Lieutenant Commander Brunicardi is currently Captain of the Irish Naval Vessel LÉ James Joyce, and Lieutenant Commander Cotter is currently executive officer on board the Irish Naval Vessel LÉ Eithne.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP5 - Gaelic Games and the Defence Forces

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 13:32:03 GMT

In this episode we speak to Commandant Sue Ramsbottom, Commandant Dermot Earley and Sergeant Gemma O'Connor, who have all balanced successful careers in the military with elite Gaelic Games careers. They speak about motivation, resilience, and how what they have learned in the military has translated to their sporting careers and vice-versa.

Due to some technical difficulties and circumstances surrounding recording of this episode some of the sound is less than optimal. We have done our best with it but apologise in advance for any fuzziness.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP4 - Survive, Escape, Resist, Extract

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 10:00:56 GMT

In this episode we speak to Captain Barry Jones of the Military Training and Survival School, based at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel.

Barry has been a pioneer in formalising Survival, Escape and Evasion, Resistance to Interrogation and Extraction (SERE) training in the Irish Defence Forces. He covers tactics, techniques and procedures on the topic, and how the Defence Forces trains personnel to survive in hostile environments, evade capture, resist interrogation, and extract.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP3 - The Ordnance Officer

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 09:30:12 GMT

In this episode we speak to an Ordnance Officer about the role of the Ordnance Corps within the Defence Forces, including EOD (bomb disposal), working on aide-to-the-civil-power operations with An Garda Síochana, procurement and maintenance of equipment and weapons for the Defence Forces and ammunition management.

Due to the sensitive nature of the operations conducted by the Ordnance Corps of the Irish Defence Forces we do not identify the interviewee by name or give personal details about them.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP2 - Recruit Training in the Naval Service

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode we speak with Leading Seaman Katie O'Leary about what recruit training in the Naval Service is like, up skilling to become and Able Seaman, and the path to becoming an NCO.

L/S O'Leary joined the Naval Service in 2007 and has trained numerous recruit platoons in the Irish Naval Service. She is currently serving on the LÉ James Joyce.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S2EP1 - Dundalk to Lebanon - Sgt Rico Lucchesi

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 10:00:00 GMT

In Episode 1 of Season 2 of the Irish Defence Forces Podcast we speak to Sgt Rico Lucchesi of the 27th Infantry Battalion, Aiken Barrack's, Dundalk, taking in his experience conducting border operations with the 27th Battalion along the border with Northern Ireland during the Troubles, his experiences serving overseas in Lebanon and his experience in training personnel and engaging with his local community at home in Dundalk.

Sgt Lucchesi has been in the Defence Forces since 1985, has served overseas on multiple occasions, trained nine recruit platoons and is currently the Operations Sergeant with the 27th Infantry Battalion.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP10 - 26 Years: A Career in the Defence Forces

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 11:21:02 GMT

In this weeks episode we talk to Company Sergeant Sandra Murphy (2 Brigade CIS Compnay), Sergeant Rena Kennedy (Public Relations Branch) and Sergeant Leona Walsh (102 Squadron, Air Corps) about their careers in Óglaigh na hÉireann. We talk about their friendship forged during recruit training in 1994, their wide ranging experience both at home and overseas and the highs (and lows) of their 26 years in service.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP9 - The Military Helicopter Pilot

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 08:47:02 GMT

In this weeks episode we chat to Captain Eugene Mohan of the Irish Air Corps on the different types of helicopter use in Óglaigh na hÉireann and their various roles, from cargo lift to aerial fire fighting to troop transport. Captain Mohan has served as pilot in the Irish Air Corps since 2014 and most recently served as a helicopter pilot with the Emergency Aeromedical Service operated by the Defence Forces in conjunction with the Health Service Executive.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP8 - The Military Diver

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 08:56:15 GMT

In this weeks episode we chat to Leading Seaman Ryan Carroll, a non-commissioned officer serving in the Naval Service Diving Section, at Haulbowline Naval Base, Cork. The Naval Service Diving Section are the sole training establishment for military diving in the Defence Forces. They are the primary State diving team, carrying out many varied tasks for a number of State Agencies. L/S Carroll has served in the Diving Section for 7 years and has also served overseas in the Mediterranean. In 2018, L/S Carroll was awarded a Defence Forces Values Award for Physical Courage.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP7 - The Cavalry Corps

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 09:45:40 GMT

In this weeks episode we chat to Sergeant Larry Havens, a non-commissioned officer in the 1 Armoured Cavalry Squadron, stationed in the Curragh Camp, about the Cavalry Corps of the Irish Defence Forces, its history, roles and training. Sergeant Havens is an instructor in reconnaissance training, armour and gunnery with almost 19 years service. He has also served overseas in a variety of roles during his career.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP6 - The Naval Service Cadetship

Fri, 29 May 2020 09:06:00 GMT

This week we chat to Lieutenant Paul O'Brien, the gunnery and fisheries officer on board the Naval Service Vessel LÉ Ciara, about the Naval Service Cadetship and the process of becoming a qualified Naval Service Operations Officer. We discuss the seamanship, and maritime training both at Haulbowline Naval Base and in the National Maritime College of Ireland and give some insight into the cadet experience. This episode is part of our series on the cadetships offered by the 3 services of the Irish Defence Forces, the Army, the Naval Service and the Air Corps. For more information on current competitions, visit https://www.military.ie/en/careers/current-competitions/

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP5 - The Army Cadetship

Fri, 22 May 2020 09:33:03 GMT

This episode features Captain Grainne Kenneally, an Officer Instructor in the Cadet School, the Military College, Curragh Camp. We discuss the process of training an Army Officer, from tactical training, to academics, to leadership. Grainne is currently the 2ic of the 96th Cadet Class, who at the training to become officers in the Cadet School. This episode is part of our series on the cadetships offered by the 3 services of the Irish Defence Forces, the Army, the Naval Service and the Air Corps. For more information on current competitions, visit https://www.military.ie/en/careers/current-competitions/ .

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP4 - The Air Corps Cadetship

Fri, 15 May 2020 08:32:16 GMT

This episode features Lieutenant Niall Dungan, a Flight Instructor with the Air Corps College at Baldonnel Aerodrome. We discuss the process of training a Military Pilot Officer, both as a pilot and as an officer in the Irish Defence Forces. Niall is both a flight instructor on the Pilatus PC-9M aircraft and a helicopter pilot. This episode is part of our series on the cadetships offered by the 3 services of the Irish Defence Forces, the Army, the Naval Service and the Air Corps. For more information on current competitions, visit https://www.military.ie/en/careers/current-competitions/

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP3 - The Sniper

Fri, 08 May 2020 10:01:31 GMT

In Episode 3 of the Irish Defence Forces Podcast we speak to Sergeant Karl Johnston of our Infantry Weapons Wing on the history, concept and uses of snipers. Karl is a sniper instructor in the Infantry Weapons Wing, Defence Forces Trining Centre. He has served overseas on numerous missions, including as a sniper in Chad.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP 2 - LÉ James Joyce and the fight against COVID-19

Fri, 01 May 2020 10:07:34 GMT

In Episode 2 of the Irish Defence Forces Podcast we speak to Lieutenant Commander Mike Brunicardi, Captain of the Irish Naval Vessel LÉ James Joyce, which at the time of recording was alongside Sir John Rogerson's Quay in Dublin in support of a Health Service Executive and National Ambulance Service COVID-19 Community Testing Centre. We speak about the operations the vessel has conducted since leaving Haulbowline Naval Base on April 06th, the current maritime environment around Ireland and the role of the vessel in supporting the Health Service Executive in the fight against COVID-19.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1EP 1 - COVID-19 Restrictions and Looking After Your Mental Health

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 10:58:53 GMT

In Episode 1 of the Irish Defence Forces Podcast, the Chief Military Psychologist, Commandant Dorota O'Brien speaks about strategies one can employ to look after your mental health during the COVID-19 outbreak. This podcast is primarily aimed at serving members and their families, but the subject matter may be of use to people in all walks of life.

The Irish Defence Forces Podcast aims to provide interesting content on all aspects of the Irish military. It is a production of the Defence Forces Public Relations Branch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.