The Blackwater manoeuvres are synonymous with the Emergency. Involving over 20,000 troops, the lasted from 17 August 1942 to 27 September 1942 and pitted the 2nd Spearead division under Maj Gen Hugo McNeill against Maj Gen M.J Costello’s 1st Division. Here the 3rd Battalion passes the 25th Battalion outside Fethard, Co. Tipperary, to take over as advance guard of the Brigade as they proceed southwards with the Spearhead Division – 20 August 1942.