2 Royal Irish - St Patrick's Day Parade

The Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell, today attended 2nd Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment's 
St Patrick’s Day Parade in Thiepval Barracks, Lisburn, for the traditional shamrock presentation as part of the regimental family day. This was the first parade of this scale that the Battalion have been able to put on since 2016. 

The Lord-Lieutenant inspected the parade; addressed the soldiers, their families and the veterans; and helped present the traditional sprig of shamrock. 

The Lord-Lieutenant of was accompanied by his Lord-Lieutenant Cadet, Cadet Company Sergeant Major Ciara McKay of
1st (NI) BN ACF. This was Ciara's last duty in the role and we wish her all the best for the future.

The Lord-Lieutenant addressed the parade and said:

"Distinguished guests, Ladies & Gentlemen
 
It is a real honour to be here today representing Her Majesty the Queen at your Battalion St Patrick’s Day Parade, particularly given that this the first time you have paraded collectively, and on this scale, since 2016.    
 
This long-standing tradition of wearing a “sprig of shamrock” marks the strong links between the gallantry of the Irish soldier and the recognition first bestowed by Queen Victoria dating back to the Battle of Colenso in 1900. It is only fitting that this tradition has been continued to this day, by successive monarchs.
 
The parade today reflects the enduring bravery and sacrifice of soldiers from this Island who have taken the oath of allegiance and served without fear or favour. The 2nd Battalion continues to carry the mantle for those who have gone before you, and, on a personal note, this includes my Grandfather who served at the Somme with one of your antecedent regiments. Today’s Battalion continues to exemplify the commitment, spirit and pledge of continued service that was so clearly demonstrated back in the first World War.  
 
When I look around at those on parade today, and see the impressive and varied collection of medals, it highlights the professionalism and dedication of the Battalion. The pride in belonging to this Battalion is also very evident; with so many Caubeens being held particularly high today.  It is, therefore, no surprise that this Battalion is so well recruited and I am delighted that you are currently in the process of expanding your footprint into Limavady and Newtownards and have just been given orders to raise a fifth Company in Enniskillen. The latter obviously being a hugely symbolic regimental location, given this is where the regiment was first raised back in 1689.
 
Many regiments across the Army point to the excellent ties between the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the Royal Irish Regiment and they aspire to mirror and emulate your proven success and enduring relationship.  You have led the way in demonstrating how both Regular and Reserve soldiers can work together effortlessly in the modern ‘One Army’ and you have shown how the pride of the Irish soldier continues to make a difference wherever you go. So, to be joining you at this St Patrick’s Day parade, in HM’s Platinum Jubilee year, is particularly special and it is my great privilege to be able to share it with you, your families, veterans and the wider Regimental circle. 
 
Therefore, it just leaves me to close by thanking you all, most sincerely, on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen, for your service and to wish you all a very happy St Patrick’s Day.  Faugh a Ballagh"