Tracing their history to the foundation of the Irish Volunteers in 1913, the Irish Defence Forces have undergone significant transformation in the century since the foundation of the Free State. This richly illustrated book explores the landmark successes and achievements, struggles and missteps of the Defence Forces over the past century. Highlighting the men and women of all components of the Forces – Army, Air Corps, Naval Service and Reserve – and their operational roles both in Ireland and internationally, it offers the first complete overview of the development of the Forces from the Civil War to the present day.