Limerick played host to the Ministerial Review of the 101 Inf Bn on September 8 before their departure for peacekeeping duties in Eastern Chad and Central African Republic. 101 Inf Bn is the fifth Irish battalion to serve in this troubled region of Africa and the third to serve with United Nations MINURCAT.
The battalion consists of 412 personnel primarily drawn from 1 S Bde. 12 Inf Bn is the lead-battalion and headquarters for 101 Inf Bn is now in Sarsfield Bks prior to departure. Lt Col Howard Berney, OC 12 Inf Bn, is now Officer Commanding 101 Inf Bn, while Sgt Maj Pat O’Driscoll, 1 Fld Arty Reg, who is on his 21 trip overseas, is the Battalion Sergeant Major.
Marching from Sarsfield Bks to the cheers of onlookers, 101 Inf Bn rendered honours to the Minister for Defence, Willie O’Dea T.D., at the Cresent on O’Connell Ave. The Minister said that, “Occasions such as this serve to remind us of the important part our Defence Forces play as peacekeepers throughout the world. Participation in the MINURCAT mission is a continuation of our honourable tradition of supporting the United Nations in the cause of peace and security.”