A massive crowd turned out in Shane Kearney’s home village last night as prayers were said for the critically injured soldier.
The 22-year-old from Killeagh in east Cork was on his second tour of duty in the Lebanon when the incident occurred.
He remains in a critical condition in hospital and has undergone surgery.
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Private Kearney joined the Defence Forces in October 2018 and his home Unit is 1 Cavalry Squadron in Collins Barracks Cork.
He previously served overseas with the 117 Infantry Battalion UNIFIL. Parish priest Fr Tim Hazelwood said the Kearney family was “struggling” with what happened, but were just grateful their son was alive.
He told RTE ahead of the vigil: “They’re thinking of young Rooney who died.
“Shane could have been driving. I think young Rooney was driving the vehicle and Shane drove sometimes, so they said it could have been him.
“It could have been different tonight. They’re thankful he’s still with us.
“The family invited everyone to come, because they said the more prayers, the better chance Shane has.
“He’s only a young lad, but please God, he’s at a UN hospital, so hopefully he’s getting the best care.”
Shane’s old school, St Colman’s Community College, also reached out to his grieving family.
They said: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to former St Colmans Pupil Shane Kearney who has been seriously injured in The Lebanon and also to his family.” Chairperson of Killeagh GAA club Ger Scully said the Kearney family are very active in the community.
He added: “The community is just rallying around to get their bearings.
“No one knows how to react. There is just complete shock.”
Fianna Fail TD James O’Connor, who is from Killeagh, played hurling with Shane.
He said: “It is very sad. It came as a huge shock to everybody.
“The family are very involved in the Killeagh community. They are very much at the heart of the village.”
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