Soldiers launch fundraiser in memory of Seán Rooney
Private Seán Rooney, who was shot dead last month, will be remembered by colleagues from 121 UNIFIL in Lebanon who have launched a charity fundraiser
Colleagues of fallen soldier Seán Rooney have set up a charity fundraiser in his memory.
Irish soldiers serving with 121 UNIFIL in Lebanon announced the Seán Rooney 100km run within January.
The venture has already raised almost €7,000 from over 170 donors. A GoFundMe page has been set up and you can donate here.
The fundraiser, organised by Alex Tate, will raise money in aid of Rainbows Ireland Child & Youth Grief & Loss Support CLG.
“Thank you in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me,” Tate said.
A man suspected of killing Private Rooney was arrested by authorities in Lebanon over Christmas.
Hezbollah, the Iranian-linked Shia militia, handed the man over to security forces.
The 24-year-old peacekeeper was serving with the 121st Infantry Battalion of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Private Rooney, a Dundalk native who lived in Newtowncunningham, was driving a UN-marked armoured utility vehicle, which came under attack in the Al-Aqbieh area of south Lebanon after becoming separated from an accompanying vehicle.
Private Rooney's AUV came under fire. The vehicle overturned and Private Rooney was shot dead.
Private Rooney, described by his mother Natasha McCloskey as a 'national hero', was buried with full military honours in Newtowncunningham on December 22.