Tributes Flow for British Army Officer from Roscommon Killed in Training Incident
Tributes have been paid to a British Army officer who grew up in County Roscommon, following his tragic death in a live firing training incident in England. Captain Philip Gilbert Muldowney, aged 25, passed away on Sunday after the incident occurred at the Otterburn Training Area in Northumberland, as confirmed by the UK's Ministry of Defence.
Local Roots and Family Background
Known affectionately as Gilbert, Captain Muldowney was raised in Ballinameen, near Boyle, after his family relocated there from Dublin during his childhood. His father, David, serves as a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Elphin, highlighting the family's deep community ties.
The Dioceses of Achonry and Elphin issued a joint statement on Wednesday afternoon, expressing their condolences and prayers. They stated, "We join in offering our condolences and prayers to Deacon David Muldowney, his wife Meg and their daughters, on the tragic death of their son and brother Gilbert."
Parish priest Very Rev Lawrence Ebuk described the community as "devastated" and praised the Muldowney family as a "close knit, humble nice family" and "good people."
Military Service and Tributes from the Army
Captain Muldowney served as a fire support commander within 129 (Dragon) Battery of the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery. The Ministry of Defence highlighted him as an "immensely enthusiastic officer who embraced life with a vigour that inspired those around him."
An Army spokesperson noted that the circumstances of his death are under investigation, stating, "It would be inappropriate to comment any further at this time."
Commanding officer of the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery, Lieutenant Colonel Henry Waller, paid a heartfelt tribute, saying, "It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Captain Philip Gilbert Muldowney. Known to all simply as Gilbert, he was an immensely enthusiastic officer who embraced life with a vigour that inspired everyone around him."
He added, "Professionally, Gilbert was an outstanding officer who consistently put his soldiers first. He led from the front in all that he did, a quality that defined his character. His leadership, courage, and sense of duty earned him the respect and admiration of all who served alongside him."
Lieutenant Colonel Waller continued, "Friends and colleagues will remember Gilbert for his easy-going nature, boundless energy, and infectious sense of humour. He had an extraordinary ability to lift spirits and make the best of any situation, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him. Gilbert was an unforgettable character and a rising star within the Army and the Regiment. His loss is deeply felt by his comrades and friends, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this most difficult time."
Colleagues Remember a Joyful and Competent Leader
Captain Helen Brackenbury shared her memories, stating, "Gilbert was a truly kind person, highly competent and endearingly joyful." She elaborated, "He served all those under his command in a highly authentic manner, unapologetically himself – every day he displayed a level of spirit I continue to be in awe of. It has been the pleasure of my career to have served alongside him, and I consider myself very lucky to have been his friend."
Captain Muldowney began his military journey by joining the Army on January 5, 2020. He later commissioned into the Royal Artillery on December 11, 2020, after completing his training at the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
The incident has cast a shadow over both the military community and his hometown in Roscommon, as investigations continue into the tragic events at Otterburn Training Area.
