The History of Connolly Barracks – Video Archive

Hugh Farrell and Noel Lee, former members of the 4th Cavalry Squadron, share their memories of life in Sean Connolly Barracks, Longford. This oral history captures their experiences from joining the Irish Defence Forces in the early 1970s to serving at Longford Barracks until its closure in 2009. They reflect on daily routines, basic facilities, border patrols during the Troubles, and specialist cavalry training, as well as the strong bonds within the unit and its ties to the local community. The conversation includes stories of comrades lost in service, ceremonial funerals, and even the burial of cavalry horses on the barracks grounds. It also touches on the barracks’ broader history, dating back to the 18th century, and its role as a military, social, and economic hub for Longford town.

This oral history recording from Longford Library features Irish Army veterans Ray Connell and Noel Lee, both former members of the 4th Cavalry Squadron. In a candid and engaging conversation, they share vivid memories of life in Longford Barracks, from the routines and camaraderie of daily service to experiences during overseas deployments and border operations. Their reflections also touch on sporting achievements, community involvement, and the profound impact of the barracks’ closure in 2009 on both soldiers and the wider Longford community. The video offers a rare and authentic glimpse into the humour, resilience, and enduring friendships that shaped military life in County Longford, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in military history, local heritage, and the lived experiences of Irish soldiers.

 This oral history interview features former members of Ireland’s Defence Forces, Pat Donnelly and Pat Freeman, as they share their personal experiences of military life in Longford during the 1970s and 1980s. The conversation offers a vivid account of life in the Longford barracks, the challenges of border deployments during the Troubles, and the realities of major operations such as the search for kidnapped businessman Don Tidey. It also reflects on Ireland’s growing role in peacekeeping missions overseas and the evolving relationship between military personnel and the local community. Through their stories, the speakers highlight the importance of adaptability, resilience, and community involvement, providing a unique perspective on Longford’s military and social heritage.

This British Movietone newsreel, filmed on 23 November 1942, documents “Step Together Week” in Longford during the Emergency, featuring military and civic ceremony at Sean Connolly Barracks and in the cathedral grounds. It shows representatives of Ireland’s defence forces marching through the barrack gates, an inspection and address by Taoiseach Éamon de Valera, the participation of Rev. Dr McNamee and clergy, and a procession including nurses and unarmed infantry. The film concludes with a symbolic pageant in which soldiers of Ireland present arms around Miss Chrissie Manning, representing Ireland, underscoring themes of national unity and preparedness centred on Sean Connolly Barracks in Longford.

This clip is an excerpt from the 1988 documentary “Cast of 1000s” about the Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil (FCÁ), which was the local defence force in Ireland. The footage features the 11th Cavalry Squadron during their annual training in Sean Connolly Barracks, showing them undertaking field exercises with armoured, reconnaissance, and support troops. Equipment used includes Landsverk armoured cars, Unimogs, and Panhard-60 armoured cars. The documentary highlights the esprit de corps among the troops and gives insight into the outdoor and shooting activities they engaged in during training.