Officer Commanding 6 Inf Bn and Custume Barracks, together with the serving members of Custume Barracks, will host an Open Day on Sunday, September 18, for the families of all members of Custume Barracks, with members of the general public also welcome to attend.
This event will showcase some of the Defence Forces equipment and capabilities and is a unique opportunity for the general public to gain an insight into life behind the walls of Custume Barracks. The Open Day is being conducted as part of the Centenary Commemoration which marks the 100 year anniversary of the handover of Custume Barracks from the British Forces.
“All are welcome,and there will be something of interest for all ages from the very young,to the not so young. “The Open Day presents a valuable opportunity for members of the Defence Forces to showcase what we do,and to highlight our contribution to the wider community,be that athome or overseas,” Lieutenant Colonel Oliver Clear, the Officer Commanding 6 Inf Bn and Custume Barracks, stated.
As the oldest continuously occupied barracks in Europe, Custume Barracks has played a vital role within the community since its construction began in 1691. Originally named Victoria Barracks, the history of Custume Barracks dates back to the siege of Athlone. During this battle the Jacobite soldier Sgt Custume gave his life defending the town bridge, delaying the Willimaite Army.
In 1922, the barracks housed a substantial British Garrison, commanded by Col.Hare and on February 28 1922, the barracks was formally handed over to Comdt Gen MacEoin and subsequently renamed Custume Barracks.
A Coy 35 Inf Bn,deployed to the Congo in 1961 with troops from Custume Barracks,and were the troops that were besieged by Katangese Forces in Jadotville. The battle became known as the Siege of Jadotville, with a Netflix film being made about the conflict.
Recently, two Units deployed overseas from Custume Barracks, 60 Inf Gp to Syria in 2019 and 118 Inf Bn to Lebanon in 2021, adding to the number of troops the barrack gates has borne witness to that have departed on successful operations at home and overseas from the Congo to Syria and Chad to Lebanon.
The Open Day will consist of weapon, aircraft and equipment displays along with guided tours of the barracks to include the barrack museum, prison and other locations of interest. There will be activities for children, including bouncy castles and mini obstacle courses with Band 2 Brigade also performing throughout the day.
All members of the public are invited to attend and learn more about the Defence Forces and our roles within the community. For those wishing to attend the event they should be aware that parking inside the barracks will be limited on the day, visitors are requested to enter the barrack on foot where possible.
