Military ceremony remembers our fallen heroes

A MILITARY ceremony took place in Merrion Square recently at the site of the National Memorial to members of the Defence Forces who died in the Service of the State.

A Ceremonial Military Guard paraded during the ceremonies that took place on Saturday, August 16. The 6th Infantry Battalion, Custume Barracks, Athlone participated in the Military Guard Ceremony in solemn remembrance of their fallen comrades.

The ceremony lasted approximately one hour.

The national memorial was unveiled by President Mary McAleese in November 2008 to commemorate those members of the Defence Forces who died in the service of the State.

It is a place of contemplation and remembrance, where families, relatives and members of the public can reflect on the sacrifice these soldiers, sailors and airmen and airwomen have made for their country.

The pyramid shape of the memorial, which was designed by Brian King, features references to burial and is a standing testament to the dead.

Within the pyramid, four bronze figures, representing all elements of the Defence Forces, stand guard over the eternal flame that emanates from the badge of the Defence Forces, Ã?glaigh na hÃ?ireann.

The flame burns in perpetual memory of those members of the Defence Forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

During this ceremony two bugle calls were heard, the

‘Last Post’ followed by the raising of the National Flag, followed by

‘Reveille’.

These two calls are customarily used within the Irish Defence Forces during commemoration ceremonies, wreath laying ceremonies and military funerals.

The ceremony began with a lone piper playing at the memorial site. The piper, when finished, saluted and took his position on the inner path.

The Lieutenant then marched the guard from Government Buildings to the memorial. The guard took its position on the outer path as they rendered honours to the national flag.

The Lieutenant then marched the Inner Guard to the memorial while Outer Guard will took post at either side of the gate.

These

‘sentinels’ were posted and adopted the position

‘Rest on Arms Reversed’ as a mark of respect to all members of the Defence Forces who died in the service of the State.

Unit commanders then laid wreaths while members of the public were also given the opportunity to lay wreaths or tributes.

Once all the wreaths were laid the piper played a lament.