Memoirs from within the Irish Defence Forces are rare. Much of what has been written has come from outside observers, often journalists or academics. Former Army captain Tom Clonan’s Blood, Sweat and Tears, narrating the experiences of Irish soldiers serving with the United Nations in Lebanon, was something of an exception when it appeared in 2012.
Ray Lane, former lieutenant colonel and commanding officer of the Defence Forces Ordnance School, has now contributed a valuable addition to the genre with Only a Soldier Knows, describing 45 years of Army service within the State, in conflict zones overseas and with international bodies including the UN, the European Union and Nato.
There are probably three books, maybe four, in Lane’s distinguished military career. But in fewer than 250 pages he manages to cover his work in bomb disposal during the Troubles, overseas tours in Lebanon, investigations and negotiations in the former Yugoslavia and in Gaza as well as participation in the International Criminal Tribunal at The Hague. Finally, he rounds off with a scathing tour d’horizon of Ireland’s defence policy in an increasingly unstable international order.
The author describes the development of the Army’s internationally recognised capacities in ordnance – bomb disposal – and the extraordinary courage of those who take on this terrifying work. He highlights the robot technologies developed by Irish firms to assist them. He brings this story fully up to date, addressing modern biological and chemical threats.
About 40,000 Irish soldiers – men and women – have served overseas with the UN. Thus a great many families will relate to Lane’s depiction of the stresses and dangers – as well as the routines and banalities – of peacekeeping deployment. The absolute imperative is the safety of those under protection and the soldiers who are protecting them. Qualities of courage, judgment, adaptability and pragmatism are essential.
This is a compelling story told by an Irish soldier with values of humanity and patriotism along with immense professional pride and competence. But former Col Lane does not hesitate to challenge certain aspects of the culture within which the Irish Defence Forces have been required to operate. They and the State are fortunate to have people of his discernment, loyalty and courage wearing its uniform.
Conor Brady is a former editor of The Irish Times
