'Best soldier' honour for Offaly's Dean Buckley
By David Flynn
Eighty-two young members of the Defence Forces were awarded their 3 Star Private Rank markings last week at Custume Barracks, Athlone, which represented the culmination of a physically and mentally demanding twelve-week training course.
Dean Buckley, from Pollagh in Offaly, was awarded the 'Overall Best Soldier' award on the day, for the 3 Platoon of the Defence Forces.
Dean, who has just turned 23 years of age, was always interested in the Army since he was in school, and signed up two years ago.
“I decided to go to college to study business and become a fitness instructor through Athlone IT,” said the new 3 star Private. “I signed up for the Army, got through the courses, and here I am today.”
He said that over the recent period he had spent three months in Finner Camp, Donegal, and came back to Athlone for three months.
“There are endless opportunities in the Defence Forces,” said Dean. “I think it's a great career, and I’m very happy I chose to go down this path. Everyone gets on so well together. We’re all best friends and we all stick together.”
The new Private Buckley said he's looking forward to serving overseas.
“I have friends and family in the Army, and, before joining, they gave me advice and told me what it’s like and gave me help and tips on how to get through it,” he said.
Dean is proud to have won the Best Soldier award for his platoon.
The award was presented to the soldier who achieved the highest overall standard during the course of their training. The award-winning soldier is adjudged to be highly motivated, disciplined, and physically fit and has attained a very high proficiency in each of the military skills taught during 2-3 star training.
“I do a good bit of running to keep my fitness up to a high standard, play football with Erin Rovers in Pollagh, and do boxing with St Carthage’s,” said Dean.
The 'passing out' parade on September 11 saw the new soldiers march on military parade on the Custume Barracks, Athlone, square before their families, loved ones, and senior Army personnel.