Brave Kilkenny troops mask delight as they finally arrive home after eight-month deployment in Lebanon

After eight long months, the final rotation of Kilkenny-based troops of the 115th Infantry Battalion returned home yesterday after serving an extended deployment in the Middle East.

The final rotation of 170 Irish troops from the 115th United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) returned to Dublin Airport yesterday following an eight month deployment, which was extended due to Covid-19 travel restrictions.

The troops, who all wore face coverings, were transported to McKee Barracks for a medical screening before travelling home, where they will now have to undergo a 14-day isolation period.

The 115th Infantry Battalion are drawn primarily from 1 Brigade with personnel mainly from the South East and South of Ireland.

A total of 338 Defence Forces personnel deployed with the 115th Infantry Battalion, including 50 soldiers from Kilkenny.

The 115th Battalion has been replaced by the 116 Infantry Battalion, who now have to undergo a 14-day isolation period on arrival in theatre.