The Transport Corps is the backbone of the Irish Army’s operational effectiveness. Known in Irish as An Cór Iompair, the Transport Corps (TPT) serves as a combat service support unit within the Irish Army, tasked with providing essential heavy lift transport and logistics capabilities to the Defence Forces. They ensure that troops arrive at their destinations on time, equipped with the necessary materiel to accomplish their missions.
CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS
On 12th September 2024 Kevin Reid was a guest at the Irish Defence Forces Transport Corps – Centenary Open Day held at the Curragh Camp, County Kildare. We will bring you our other stories of the centenary open day in upcoming episodes.
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Originally established as the Army Transport Corps by Defence Forces Order No. 3 on October 1st, 1924, the Transport Corps has undergone several name changes throughout its 100-year history. Perhaps the most beloved name associated with the Corps is the Supply and Transport Corps, or S&T Corps. The term Sóláthair agus Iompair (Supply & Transport) still proudly appears on the collar badges of the Transport Corps.
DRIVING SKILLS SHOWCASED
As part of the centenary celebrations the drivers of the Transport Vehicle Maintenance School (TVMS) held a competition to showcase their skills. The school is within the Defence Forces Training Centre (DFTC) and subordinate to the Directorate of Transport. Responsible for the training, education and technical upskilling of Defence Forces personnel in all areas of driving and maintenance of vehicles for use domestically and overseas.
All Transport Corps drivers possess the skills to operate vehicles both on and off-road, navigating challenging terrains and overcoming obstacles. They are trained to drive in heavy smoke or in complete darkness using infrared equipment and, crucially, to handle the vehicle in these conditions without any electronic assistance.
For the skills showcase each driver drove a long wheel-base Toyota Land Cruiser towing a box trailer both forward and in reverse around a cone course.
Points were awarded for time taken to complete the course and points were deducted for every cone struck. Each driver was accompanied by a spotter walking alongside and giving instructions. And to replicate combat conditions of low light and visibility each driver wore a welders mask!
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Sources of Information and Photo Credits
Military.ie – The Transport Corps
Military.ie – Transport and Vehicle Maintenance School
