Dundalk's Aiken Barracks historical walking tours this summer

Aiken Barracks in Dundalk, headquarters of the 27 Infantry Battalion of the Irish Army, is to hold a number of historical walking tours this summer.

Walking tours of Aiken Barracks will be held on the following dates:

• Thursday 9 May
• Thursday 13 June
• Thursday 11 July
• Thursday 8 August
• Thursday 12 September

The tours, which will last approximately 90 minutes in duration, commence at the Point Road entrance at 6.30pm. The tours must be booked at least one week in advance. To book, contact Aiken Barracks on 042 933 2295/6 or email ricco.lucchesi@defenceforces.ie.

27 Infantry Battalion at Aiken Barracks in Dundalk, marked its fiftieth anniversary last year. It marked the anniversary with a  number of events, that culminated in a Parade at Market Square, Dundalk on Saturday 2 September. 

The Battalion was established by Army Headquarters Operation Order 7 of 1973 to be effective from 1 September of that year and replaced the 1st & 2nd Infantry Groups which were 'ad hoc' military structures formed in the wake of upsurge of violence in Northern Ireland in 1969.

The 1st Group had its HQ in Dundalk while the 2nd Group HQ in Cootehill, with each having a post in Castleblayney and Cavan respectively.

The personnel for the newly formed Battalion were to be provided from existing units and staff and also from recruit intake. A substantial number of acting NCO ranks were allowed pending the build up of the Unit.

Routine Order Number 1 showed Lt Col Louis Hogan assuming command with Capt Tom Staunton appointed Adjutant. BSM Brendan Burke became the first Sergeant Major.

which was formed on 1 September 1973,