Ireland Chapter - Defusing Danger: A Soldier’s Journey from Ireland to Global Frontlines

Join us for an engaging session with Lt Col. Ray Lane, as he delves into the harrowing, high-stakes world of bomb disposal and his personal journey through decades of military service. From defusing a massive bomb to facing intense situations in Bosnia, Lebanon, and Afghanistan. Ray will share insights from his new book, Only a Soldier Knows.

Gain a unique perspective on counter-terrorism, advancements in military technology, and the mental and physical resilience required in the face of danger. This is a rare opportunity to learn from an expert who's been on the global frontlines, witnessing history and shaping modern warfare strategies.

Lt Col. Ray Lane will be discussing his new book “Only a Soldier Knows” and the following key topics:

• Bomb Disposal Experiences: Ray Lane’s personal stories from the frontlines of bomb disposal, including significant moments such as defusing the 1,000kg bomb during the Troubles in 1978
• Military Career: Insights into his over 40 years of strategic and operational experience, especially his roles in Bosnia, Lebanon, Afghanistan, and with the Irish Defence Forces
• Counter-Terrorism and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD): His extensive experience in counter-terrorism operations and the evolving challenges of EOD/IEDD and CBRN threats globally, including his work with NATO, EU, and UN missions.
• Technological Advancements: His involvement in the development of sensor technology, UGVs/UAVs, and AI integration for modern warfare, as well as innovations in smart city protection and resilience building
• Global Conflict Observations: His experiences witnessing war crimes in former Yugoslavia and his contributions as an expert witness before the international war crimes tribunal​
• Mental and Physical Resilience: A deeper reflection on the mental strength and courage required for the high-risk roles he undertook, as highlighted in his memoir​.

Lt Col. Ray Lane (retired) is a decorated Irish Defence Forces officer with over 40 years of strategic and operational experience in Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices (CIED), Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) defence. A graduate of University College Galway and the Military College, he has been involved in counter-terrorism operations globally, serving in Bosnia, Lebanon, Afghanistan, and Ireland during the Troubles. His expertise extends to advanced sensor technologies, AI, and unmanned systems, contributing to the development of cutting-edge defence solutions. Ray’s distinguished career includes roles as a technical expert for EU, UN, and NATO missions, and he has provided expert testimony to the international war crimes tribunal. He continues to advise on global security issues, including as an advisor for UNOPS in Ukraine. His recent memoir, “Only a Soldier Knows”, offers a gripping account of his life on the frontlines of conflict.