Irish troops return home following six month deployment in Syria

125 Irish troops from the 61st Infantry Group, United Nations Disengagement Observer Force returned to Ireland last night (October 7) after a six month deployment in Syria.

ABOVE: members of the returning infantry group arriving at Dublin Airport.

On arrival the unit were subject to medical screening for COVID-19, consisting of a temperature check and symptom screening. Troops were then brought back to their home barracks on military transport and will enter a period of self-isolation for 14 days.

The group’s personnel were drawn from different units across the army, naval service and Air Corps, but the majority come from the 12th Infantry Battalion based in Sarsfield Barracks, Limerick.

They are now being replaced by the 62nd Infantry Group, made up of 126 personnel. Prior to departure, and on arrival at Damascus Airport, the group underwent medical screenings of the same type as the returning infantry group, and will undergo a 14 day self-isolation period also. A Nepalese contingent will cover operations during this period.