the pistol team from 1st battery was in the forefront of army shooting competitions for some years. in january 2005, members of the 8th far (later the 1st battery) were called upon to take part in a ceremonial 21-gun salute in honour of the city of cork becoming the european capital of culture. other ceremonial duties have included committing a contingent of reservists to represent the 1st southern brigade at the national day of remembrance ceremony at kilmainham. reservists in the 31st far were also trained in infantry tactics, amphibious operations, fighting in built up areas (fibua) and peace support operations.