On the first Friday in July, Veterans First Friday took a slightly different turn.
Instead of starting the evening in the usual way, we began the day at Courtlough Shooting Grounds, Balbriggan, for a veterans’ range day filled with good shooting, good humour and even better company.
For many of us, the range brought back memories, not just of weapons, scores or drills, but of the people we served with, the slagging that never really leaves you and the quiet confidence that comes from being among those who understand the life.
The shooting itself was only part of the day. The real value was in the gathering. There were rifle runs, targets examined with great seriousness, scores debated with absolutely no bias whatsoever and a fair bit of laughter along the way.
Some lads were clearly still carrying the muscle memory; others were there for the craic, the company and the experience. Either way, everyone played their part in making it a safe, relaxed and enjoyable veterans’ day out.
After the range, we moved to the clubhouse, where the pace changed from concentration to conversation. Some enjoyed a refreshment, some had tea, coffee or minerals, and all had the chance to sit down, talk, remember and reconnect.
These are the moments that matter. No ceremony, no speeches and no fuss. Just veterans sitting together, telling stories, catching up and reminding one another that the bond does not end when the uniform comes off.
Thanks to the veterans’ bus support, we then travelled back into town for the First Friday gathering. The evening continued with more laughs, more stories and a few well-earned pints. By that stage, the range bags were put away and the scores were mostly forgotten.
A special word of thanks to everyone who helped organise the day, to those who travelled, to those who supported the transport and to all who made the effort to turn up. Days like this happen because veterans continue to show up for each other.
Service may end. The friendships don’t. A great day out, from the firing point to the final pint.