A series of monthly runs will be held in Lebanon in memory of Donegal peacekeeper, Private Seán Rooney, to raise funds for the Rainbows Ireland charity.
The 24-year-old died on December 14th, 2022, when his UN jeep was ambushed by a hostile mob while on peacekeeping duty.
Pte Rooney, whose family hails from Donegal and Dundalk, was buried with full military honours and laid to rest in the village of Newtowncunningham.
All funds raised through the campaign’s GoFundMe page will be donated to Rainbows Ireland, a charity close to Seán’s heart.
“To honour our friend and colleague’s memory, and continue his legacy of compassion, we are organising a series of memorial runs at Camp 2-45 in Lebanon, where Seán had served two tours,” a spokesperson for the organisers said.
“Starting on the 14th of every month, the date of Seán’s passing, we will come together to run in his memory. These monthly runs will lead up to a significant event in November, where we will host a large memorial run and ceremony to celebrate Seán’s life and contributions.”
Rainbows Ireland provides support to children and young people who have experienced loss through bereavement or parental separation.
“Seán believed in the power of community and the importance of supporting those in need, and we feel this is a fitting tribute to his spirit,” his friends added.
“We invite you to join us in honoring Seán’s memory by participating in the runs, sharing this campaign, and contributing to our fundraising efforts. Your support will help us make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people facing difficult times, just as Seánwould have wanted. Thank you for helping us keep Sean’s legacy alive and for supporting Rainbows Ireland.”
You can contribute to the fundraising effort by clicking on the following GoFundMe Link: https://gofund.me/87d71ad1