Can Irish citizens serve in the British army?

Many Irishmen and members of the Irish diaspora in Britain and also Ulster-Scots served in both World War I and World War II as part of the British forces. Since partition, Irish citizens have continued to have the right to serve in the British Army, reaching its highest levels since World War II in the 1990s.

How many Irish volunteers fought in ww1?

Those serving overseas were recalled back to Britain and another 30,000 reservists were called up. Estimates of how many Irish men fought in the First World War vary, but it is now generally accepted that around 200,000 soldiers from the island of Ireland served over the course of the war.

Did the Irish fight in the First World War?

During World War I (1914–1918), Ireland was part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, which entered the war in August 1914 as one of the Entente Powers, along with France and Russia. Over 200,000 men from Ireland fought in the war, in several theatres.

Who are the Irish in the British Armed Forces?

Irish in the British Armed Forces refers to the history of Irish people serving in the British Armed Forces (including the British Army, the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force and other elements). Ireland was then as part of the United Kingdom from 1800-1922 and during this time in particular many Irishmen fought in the British Army.

Can you join the British Army from the Irish Republic?

Each year since 2005, the numbers joining the British Army from the Republic have increased. The most popular choice is the Royal Irish Regiment (RIR). It is the last Irish infantry regiment ‘of the line’ and is based in Shropshire in England and Portadown in Co Armagh.

How many Irish soldiers are in the Royal Irish Constabulary?

A section of the RIR forms part of the 16 Air Assault Brigade, the UK’s rapid reaction force, and elements have been deployed to Afghanistan. It has also served in Bosnia, Kosovo, Sierra Leone, the Gulf and Iraq. Precise numbers are not available, but it is estimated that upwards of 4,000 Irish citizens serve in the British forces.

Are there any Irish heroes who have served with the British?

Many are inspired by the fact several Irish heroes have been honoured for their bravery while serving with British forces. They include Tipperary-born Lance Corporal James White of the Parachute Regiment, who received the Military Cross from the Queen.