Albanian and Polish soldiers join Irish Defence Force ranks

An increasingly multi-ethnic Irish society has been reflected in the latest bunch of recruits to join the Defence Forces.

Photo Credit: CS John Thompson of BTC 1 Brigade, recruit Patryk Krzyzak, originally from Poland, Lt Colm Kirby, platoon commander, Lt Col John O’Neill, acting executive officer of 1 Brigade,Comdt John O’Sullivan, and recruit Aldo Gaxha, originally from Albania, at the 141st Recruit Platoon’s passing out ceremony, Collins Barracks, Cork. Pictures: David Keane

A passing out ceremony for the 141 Recruit Platoon at Collins Barracks, Cork, yesterday included Albanian and Polish-born soldiers.