15 euro - 100 Years since the establishment of the Irish Defence Forces

Image of 15 euro coin - 100 Years since the establishment of the Irish Defence Forces | Ireland 2024. The Silver coin is of Proof quality.
1st October 2024 marks 100 years since the formal establishment of the Irish Defence Forces (Óglaigh na hÉireann). The National Army (Óglaigh na hÉireann), which traced its origins to the Irish Volunteers formed in 1913, was formed in early 1922 following the split in the IRA over the Anglo-Irish Treaty. Initially operating within a loose legal framework due to the exigencies of the Civil War, the new Irish Free State gave Óglaigh na hÉireann formal legal status, as its democratically raised and maintained military by means of the Defence Forces (Temporary Provisions) Act. This was brought forward by the Minister for Defence, General Richard Mulcahy, and enacted in August 1923. As provided for under Section 22 of this Act, Óglaigh na hÉireann was officially designated the Defence Forces on 1st October 1924. This was one of the most important milestones in establishing a functioning democratic state. One hundred years later the Defence Forces, consisting of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps, continue to serve Ireland with distinction at home and abroad.