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26-year-old soldier dies suddenly at Kilkenny army barracks

26-year-old soldier dies suddenly at Kilkenny army barracks

Sarah Slater

A 26-year-old soldier who served overseas on several missions died suddenly at James Stephens Army Barracks in Kilkenny city on Thursday morning.

Private Mark Mahon, a serving officer, died after falling ill, having been found in an unresponsive state by several of his colleagues.

A nurse and doctor were called to the scene and administered CPR, he was then transferred to St Luke’s General Hospital in Kilkenny city.

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Private Mahon joined the Defence Forces in 2015 was a member of 105th recruit platoon. On completion of training, he was posted to 3rd Infantry Battalion and has served as a line Private in A Company.

During his time in the 3rd Infantry Battalion he was a very active member of the unit gaining a wide range of experience to the highest standards in his required military development. His expansive military training culminated in a deployment with his unit on overseas operations in the Middle East.

26-year-old soldier dies suddenly at Kilkenny army barracks

Private Mark Mahon

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He served as a peacekeeper with the 115th Infantry Battalion to United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with distinction and was actively preparing to undergo a Potential Non-Commission Officers course.

An accomplished sportsperson, he was a member of Moone FC in Tullow, Carlow, and also has completed marathons and numerous charity events.

Private Mahon is survived by his parents Rachel and Mark, younger sister Megan, long-term girlfriend Katie, grandmother, grandad, aunties, uncles and cousins.

Paying tribute, Officer Commanding 3rd Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Declan Crummey said: “Mark was an integral part of the 3 Infantry Battalion where he served with distinction both at home and overseas. He will be sorely missed by all of his friends, comrades and colleagues serving in Stephens’ Barracks Kilkenny."

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