Families gather in Athlone as 381 Irish soldiers prepare for Lebanon deployment

Families gathered at Custume Barracks in Athlone for a parade as 381 Irish soldiers prepare for deployment to South Lebanon. The 125th Infantry Battalion will replace the 124th, who have been serving amid ongoing conflict between Israeli and Hezbollah forces. The event included a formal salute from Tanaiste Micheál Martin and Defence Forces Chief of Staff Seán Clancy. Families expressed mixed feelings of pride and anxiety, especially given recent incidents, including a stray rocket hitting the Irish base. Lieutenant Colonel Shane Rockett emphasized the importance of the ceremony for families to understand the deployment. Soldiers, including first-time deployers, reassured their families about their training and readiness for the mission ahead.