Defence Forces recruitment deadline is this Sunday
The deadline for applying for the Defence Forces' general service recruitment campaign is this Sunday, October 7.
The current recruitment competition is an opportunity for young people to serve their country in both the Army and Naval Service. New recruits will receive training in weapons handling, military tactics, team work and physical fitness. On completion of their induction training recruits will have opportunities to serve Ireland both domestically and on overseas missions, undergo leadership training and choose from a broad spectrum of educational opportunities.
Atlone native Dean McLoughlin joined the Defence Forces in 2011 and says that he hasn't looked back since.
A member of the 2BAR and based in Custume Barracks in his home town, Gnr McLoughlin has already completed UN missions in the Lebanon in 2015 and 2016.
He says that given his interests, a career in the Defence Forces was the perfect fit for him.
“If you are interested in things like physical fitness and weapons training you should consider a career in the Defence Forces. We also do marching and carry out operational and ceremonial duties. “If you are the type of person who would like to experience these things, a career in the Defence Forces would be great.”
Speaking about the benefits of a career in the Defence Forces, Chief of Staff, Vice Admiral Mark Mellett DSM says:
“A career in the Defence Forces is an opportunity to serve Ireland, at home and internationally. It is a rewarding career that is an opportunity to serve Ireland and to receive world class training and education that will stand to you for the rest of your life. We hope to attract young men and women who want make a difference and to have an impact on the world.”
On completion of recruit and three star training, which takes an initial 17 weeks followed by a further 12 weeks training respectively, newly qualified 3 star Privates and their Naval Service equivalent, can expect minimum gross annual earnings of €27,000 (inclusive of military service allowance).
The current competition is for General Service in the Army and Naval Service and is open from Monday September 10 to Sunday October 7 and applicants can apply via http://www.military.ie/en/home/.