Exercise Mountain Top

The 100 Cadet Class of the Irish Defence Forces are running 100km from Finner Camp to the base of Errigal Mountain, we will then climb the mountain and reach the summit to show our support for Archie's Army, O.N.E and IUNVA. We are trying the raise as much money for these deserving charities.

The charities are for the following causes;

1. Archie’s Army is a charity set up for a 7-year-old boy who has been diagnosed with

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a serious condition that causes progressive muscle weakness. With the progression of the muscle weakness, Archie is finding it hard to stand up and walk

up the stairs. The doctor said most boys end up in a wheelchair at the age of ten and that the lifetime expectancy is shorter with this condition (early 30’s). Archie’s parents Una and Kenneth Ennis set up a GoFundMe page for Archie as their initial

goal was €550,000. They hope to send Archie for gene therapy in a hospital in LA which will cost his family €3,200,000.

As of now, the charity has raised €539,418.

The Irish Defence Forces have dedicated themselves where possible in raising money for this charity as Archie’s father, Kenneth is a Sgt in the Irish Defence Forces.

We, the 100 Cadet Class, are attempting to run 100 km from Finner camp to the base of Mount Errigal, and then climb Mount Errigal to show our support for Archie’s Army and will

also try and raise as much money for this great cause as possible.

2. Introduction The Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel (O.N.E.) is an Irish veterans association dedicated to supporting former members of the Irish Defence Forces. Established

in 1951, O.N.E. provides assistance in areas such as housing, mental health, and social inclusion, ensuring that ex-service personnel receive the care and recognition they deserve.

Objectives and Mission The primary mission of O.N.E. is to support the well-being of ex-service personnel by providing accommodation, advocacy, and support services. The key

objectives of the association include:

Providing safe and secure accommodation for homeless and vulnerable veterans. Advocating for the rights and welfare of ex-service personnel. Offering social and mental health support.

Promoting remembrance and recognition of Irish Defence Forces veterans. Services and Programs O.N.E. operates several services designed to assist ex-service personnel, including:

Veteran Support Centres: Locations where former members of the Defence Forces can access advice, guidance, and community support. Homes for Homeless Veterans: O.N.E. operates dedicated housing facilities in Dublin, Letterkenny, and Cobh to provide shelter for homeless veterans. Mental Health and Well-being Initiatives: The association provides mental health support, recognizing the challenges that many veterans face after leaving active service. Social Inclusion Activities: Regular events and meetings foster camaraderie among veterans and help them reintegrate into civilian life.

3. It was founded in 1989 by serving and retired members of the Defence Forces. The organisation spread country-wide and today IUNVA is a representative organisation for Irish veterans of UN service. IUNVA a voluntary organisation that helps veterans in their retirement as well as commemorating

the sacrifices of those who gave their lives in service with the UN. IUNVA hosts an annual wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate those lives lost. Additionally, its aid for veterans extends to those adversely affected physically or mentally as

a result of their service. IUNVA hosts several Drop-in Centres where members and non-members are welcomed in for tea, coffee and companionship. Their mission includes prevention or relief of poverty and economic hardships for members and their dependents, integration of veterans and promotion of their full participation in society, and promote the commemoration of Irish citizens who have died in the cause of world peace.

All donations are for a great cause and are greatly appreciated.