Defence Forces pay tribute to the late Private Seán Rooney on one-month anniversary

This weekend members of the Defence Forces are remembering the late Private Seán Rooney on the one-month anniversary of his tragic killing in Lebanon.

Private Rooney was killed on December 14, 2022, while on UN peacekeeping duties in Lebanon. 

A post on the Óglaigh na hÉireann, this morning reads: "This weekend we remember Seán Rooney as we mark one month since his passing. 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. "Peacekeeping is not a job for soldiers, but only soldiers can do it"

This weekend we remember Seán Rooney as we mark one month since his passing. 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.

"Peacekeeping is not a job for soldiers, but only soldiers can do it" pic.twitter.com/WuFFH9UWAt

— Óglaigh na hÉireann (@defenceforces) January 13, 2023

In the 2022 annual review, the defences honour the memory of their dear colleague Private Rooney, the piece reads: "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."

A month's mind Mass will take place tomorrow, Sunday, January 15, at the Holy Family Church in Dundalk.