Members of the Irish Defence Forces have committed to continue their mission overseas in memory of their fallen comrade, Private Seán Rooney.
This weekend, soldiers, sailors and aircrew are remembering Pte Rooney on the one-month anniversary of his tragic killing in Lebanon.
Private Rooney from Dundalk/Newtowncunningham, was killed on December 14 last while on UN peacekeeping duties.
A tribute from the Defence Forces said: “Our thoughts remain with his family, friends and all who were lucky enough to have known him. Seán a chara, tá tú inár gcroí go deo.”
Private Rooney’s colleagues say they remain determined to continue their mission in Lebanon in his honour.
In the 2022 annual review, the Defence Forces honoured the sacrifice of 24-year-old Pte Rooney and said: “The Defence Forces ended 2022 with the tragic events that occurred in South Lebanon, which remind us all that military life carries with it inherent risk and sometimes comes with the ultimate cost being paid.
“As soldiers, sailors and aircrew we are keenly aware of our commitment to achieving the mission.
“While Seán Rooney’s memory will never be forgotten by any of us, we take example from the men and women of the 121st Infantry Battalion, who honour their colleagues and their families every day of their deployment in the manner in which they resolutely continue their mission.
“Their continued commitment to providing the ordinary people of South Lebanon with a relatively safe and stable environment in which to live and raise their families serves as an inspiration to us all.”
Month’s mind masses will take place in memory of Pte Rooney today at 10am at All Saints Church in Newtowncunningham and tomorrow at the Holy Family Church in Dundalk.
