[2][3][4][5][6][7] More frequent usage of the Kerry Militia as a military force occurred from the 1790s; as the need arose, it was marched to and encamped in various locations throughout the island of Ireland.
[8][9] In July 1797, a group of the Kerry Militia passing through Stewartstown, County Tyrone, seeking to billet in the town at the Government's behest, angered some local "Orange Boys and Yeoman" who took offence at green bonnets and ribbons worn by some wives and children of the militiamen.
A deadly sectarian engagement ensued - ten privates and a Sergeant Mahoney of the Militia were reported killed and up to six of the other side which had been joined by members of Scottish and English regiments.
[10][11] In 1798, the Militia undertook a forced march north to Leinster where it was involved in the Battle of Ballinamuck, during which the French Army supporting the United Irishmen was defeated.
Henry Herbert, Member of Parliament for Kerry, County Lieutenant, and colonel of the Militia was given governmental instructions to recruit immediately 672 more men to reach the 1222 target to fully re-embody the ranks.