WITH MILITARY precision at 2.30pm yesterday, the national flag was lowered for the last time at Kickham Barracks in Clonmel, Co Tipperary, formally bringing to an end a military presence in the town that stretched back to 1650.
Government cutbacks brought about the closure along with similar shutdowns in Cavan, Mullingar and Athlone.
The hundreds gathered inside the barracks in Clonmel were joined by thousands more on the streets who applauded as the flag was handed over to Comdt Robert Kiely, the last officer commanding to lead the troops in the town, before the national anthem sounded across the barracks square.
Earlier, huge crowds came out in the sun to line the town centre and witness the final parade in Clonmel by the 12th Infantry Battalion. Young and old – from schoolchildren to retired soldiers – joined with family members of the serving troops, along with clergy, politicians and others as the battalion members were led through the streets of the town by the band of the 1st Southern Brigade.
“There was a lump in the throat as we went through the South Gate and the reception we got from the local people was fabulous,” Sgt TJ Ryan – who has served for 24 years in Clonmel – said afterwards.
Former Tipperary footballer Lieut Alan Rockett said the ceremony surpassed anything the soldiers expected. “I think I speak for all the lads and ladies, that we felt about six inches taller as we were walking through the town.”
Most of the troops based in Clonmel have been moved to Limerick or Kilkenny, while some are currently serving overseas on United Nations peacekeeping duty.
Comdt Kiely, who headed the troops on their symbolic march, said it was “an emotional day” for the soldiers and their families. “It’s the end of an era,” he said.