by Robet Prole
11/05/2008
The C.A.R. visit to the Army Camp at the Curragh was most enjoyable
and interesting. Once again we were very fortunate to experience a lovely sunny day. John Young had made all the arrangements for the visit through his army contacts and we are most grateful to him for all the work and time he devoted to ensure the success and enjoyment
of the visit. He was so good that the group even gave him credit for the lovely weather on the day.
On arrival at the Curragh we were met and welcomed by Comdt.Martin Nolan and when all assembled were taken by bus around part of the site to the Transport and Vehicle Maintenance School.There the work of the army in training their apprentices was outlined by Sgt Major Tony O'Neill. Following the closure of the Army Apprenticeship School in Naas a number of years ago it was very interesting and encouraging to hear about current arrangements and the co-operation which exists between the Army, FAS and the various Institutes of Technology.
Back into the coach, more to be seen around the Camp and the next stop was at the workshops which were the envy of so many in the group who were not so fortunate to enjoy such excellent facilities during their time in the industry.
Following numerous questions and answers as well as viewing some very well known historic vehicles such as the Rolls Royce armoured car Reg No, YI 6450 known as " Sliabh na mBan" then it was back into the coach and off to lunch where we were joined by Col Dermot Conway who formally welcomed the group to the Curragh. Bob Waddell had remembered to bring along the charity money box ( in fairness it was only forgotten once) and after much chat, rattling of the box and socialising it was time to board the coach again to be
taken back to the cars for returning home. Incidentially in the spirit of Contact plus the desire to minimise our carbon footsteps nearly all
who made the trip were able to travel with at least one other person.
R.D.E.P.