Great fun for all the family at James Stephens Open Day

A great afternoon of education and information was enjoyed by people of all ages at the James Stephens Open Day on Friday.
Approximately 600 people of all ages attended the event which was a great success.
“The purpose of the event was to invite the public to visit the barracks where there was an array of military and weapons displays. There was also a number of armoured personnel carriers on display and an air corps helicopter was at the barracks. There was also hurling practice and the reaction was very postive,” said Operations Officer, Captain Kieran Brennan.
There was also plenty of entertainment and face painting to keep younger visitors amused as well as a military information stand.
One of the most popular members of the James Stephens Barracks is the unit mascot, Fionn the Irish Wolfhound who was also present to welcome guests.
Another highlight for many visitors was a trip to the barrack museum and the restored detention centre and jail.
Members of the local community also learned about army life with a survival training stand, a demonstration crowd riot practice and an unarmed combat exercise.
470 members of the Defence Forces are stationed at the barracks in the heart of Kilkenny City.