Ireland celebrates 45 years of its elite Army Ranger Wing

Ireland’s Army Ranger Wing is a highly regarded special forces unit in the Irish Defence Forces, officially activated on March 16, 1980. This elite unit has a reputation for its demanding selection process, which is known to be both physically and mentally rigorous. The selection course, named the Special Operations Force Qualification Course, spans over 36 weeks and is divided into five modules, starting with assessment and evaluation. The selection process is intended to determine the candidates' fitness levels and resolve, culminating in a demanding 60-kilometer cross-country march with a heavy combat load. Since its inception, the Army Ranger Wing has operated domestically and internationally, engaging in various missions across the globe. From conflict zones in Somalia and Iraq to participating in missions in the Balkans and Africa, the unit has shown versatility and resilience. Moreover, domestically, they have been involved in counter-terrorism efforts, particularly against the Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA). This blend of international involvement and domestic security duties illustrates the unit's crucial role in both national and global contexts. With the anniversary marking a significant milestone, the Army Ranger Wing has undoubtedly shaped the landscape of military operations in Ireland. As the unit celebrates its 45th anniversary, it reflects on its storied history of recruiting, training, and deploying some of the most capable soldiers in the Irish Defence Forces. The Fianóglach designation exemplifies the cultural heritage of the unit, as no direct English translation exists for this term, underscoring its unique identity. The commitment of the soldiers within the Army Ranger Wing remains unwavering, as they continue to uphold the standards of excellence required to wear the Fianóglach insignia. As new generations of recruits undertake the arduous selection course, the legacy of the Army Ranger Wing will likely strengthen, ensuring that this elite force remains at the forefront of Ireland's military capabilities for years to come.