A multi-faith commemoration honouring the Irish who died in past wars and in foreign conflicts was held in Dublin today led by President Mary McAleese and Taoiseach Bertie Ahern.
President Mary McAleese with members of the defence forces at the national day of commemoration at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham
Hundreds of guests attended the poignant outdoor ceremony in the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham, which culminated with the laying of a wreath by Mrs McAleese and the raising of the Tricolour.
These included former military personnel, as well as members of the Government, judiciary and opposition, together with relatives of the 1916 leaders.
Representatives from Northern Ireland also travelled to Dublin for the occasion. The annual event pays tribute to all Irish men and women who died in wars or in the service of the UN.
The ceremony, which was briefly interrupted by heavy rain, began with a procession of representatives of the various faiths, followed by members of the Council of State and a number of Cabinet and Junior Ministers.
Prayers and readings were offered by leaders of the Roman Catholic Church, the Church of Ireland, the Presbyterian and Methodist Churches, the Jewish faith, the Russian Orthodox Church and the Islamic Community.
Music was provided by soloist Dr Bernadette Greevy and The Band of the Defence Forces School of Music. A Guard of Honour was provided by the 27th Infantry Battalion from Aiken Barracks, Dundalk, and a Presidential Escort of Honour drawn from the 2nd Cavalry Squadron from Cathal Brugha Barracks, Rathmines, Dublin.
A four-plane Air Corps fly past also took place during the ceremony.