Elphin Community College pays tribute to 'a special young man' who 'led quietly and kindly'
Gilbert was a Head Student during his time at Elphin Community College. Pic: Courtesy Elphin Community College.
Elphin Community College has this evening paid tribute to former student, the late Gilbert Muldowney, the 25-year-old British Army officer who died following a tragic accident during live fire training in the UK on Sunday.
The British Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed that Capt Philip Gilbert Muldowney, who grew up in County Roscommon, died on Sunday after the tragic accident at an army training site in Northumberland.
Son of David and Meg Muldowney from Ballinameen, Boyle, Gilbert, as he was known, was educated locally at Elphin Community College after the family moved from Dublin to the North Roscommon village.
"The entire school community of Elphin Community College is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our former pupil Gilbert Muldowney (Class of 2019)," said the school in a statement this evening.
"Gilbert was a truly special young man who is remembered with great affection by staff and classmates alike. As one of the Head students, he led quietly and kindly, always setting a positive example. He was deeply involved in sport, an outstanding debater, and a bright, motivated student who set high standards for himself," the school added.
"His achievements in engineering were exceptional. At the ETTA Awards 2019, Gilbert achieved first place nationally for the highest Leaving Certificate Engineering result, along with third place nationally for his Higher Level Engineering project — accomplishments that reflected both his ability and determination.
"What stands out most in the memories shared by staff is Gilbert’s humility and generosity of spirit. He was inclusive, sociable and always willing to help others. He had a strong interest in fitness and a long-held ambition to pursue a career in the Army, reflecting his discipline and sense of service.
"Gilbert came from a close, loving and supportive family, and that sense of care was evident in the way he carried himself throughout his time in school.
"At Elphin Community College, we have a long-standing tradition of displaying photographs of our Head Students. Gilbert’s photograph hangs above the front door of the main school building, quietly looking out over students as they come and go each day — a fitting reminder of his leadership, kindness and the lasting place he holds in our school community.
"Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with David, Meg, Rachel and Kate, and with all of Gilbert’s family and friends, at this incredibly difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
