An Cosantóir the official magazine of the Irish Defence Forces and Reserve Defence Forces.
Issue link: https://digital.jmpublishing.ie/i/1530876
An Cosantóir November / December 2024 www.military.ie/magazine 4 | M ar Uachtarán na hÉireann agus mar Cheannasaí Uachtarach d'Óglaigh na hÉireann, is mian liom beannachtaí croíúil a sheoladh do gach uile dhuine mar bhall d'Óglaigh na hÉireann agus a dteaghlaigh an Nollaig seo. As President of Ireland and as Supreme Commander of Óglaigh na Éireann, may I send a warm greeting to each and every member of the Defence Forces and their families at this Christmas season. Throughout 2024, our Defence Forces continue to exemplify dedication and resilience in service to our country, demonstrating the great sense of generous solidarity that characterises all those who offer their service to the Army, Navy and Air Corps. The efforts of Óglaigh na Éireann ensure the continuation of Ireland's peacekeeping service with the United Nations, which has been unbroken since 1958. In so many places around the world where peace is fragile, the presence of members of Óglaigh na hÉireann brings much-needed hope. At this time, as President of Ireland and Supreme Commander of the Defence Forces, I am thinking, as I am sure are all Irish citizens, of what an anxious time it is for all of our personnel in Lebanon, where so many members of our Defence Forces are undertaking work for peace that involves considerable risk in carrying out such vital humanitarian work, making a huge sacrifice on behalf of defenceless civilians in southern Lebanese villages. We must all think daily of the soldiers and their families, of the importance of their safety and provisions, of our members who have taken these risks to protect some of the most vulnerable members of our shared global family, so that we might all live in conditions of peace. I am sure that the courage being displayed by our contingent and their colleagues has the thoughts and prayers of all those who value peace, both at home and abroad. At home, our Defence Forces played an important role in many ceremonial events across the country, including State Visits to Áras an Úachtaráin, bringing to each the customary distinction and dignity which makes me, as Úachtaráin na hÉireann, so very proud. Molaim sibh. I would also like to thank Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann for their important work in reaching out a hand of friendship and support to ex-service men and women, embodying the great spirit of solidarity that lies at the heart of all that our Defence Forces do. Agus deireadh na bliana 2024 ag druidim linn, ba mhaith liom mo mholadh a thabhairt do chách atá mar bhall d'Óglaigh na hÉireann don ionchur tábhachtach agus dearfach a dhéanann sibh do shlándáil agus cosaint na hÉireann, agus an leathnú de shíocháin, slándáil agus ceartas timpeall na cruinne. As we approach the end of 2024, may I conclude by commending all the members of Óglaigh na hÉireann for the important and positive contribution that you make to the security and defence of Ireland, and to the furthering of peace, security and justice across the globe. To each and every one of you, whether serving at home or overseas, and your families and loved ones, may I thank you for upholding the values of courage, honour, and dedication, values that lie at the heart of the Defence Forces, for your qualities of integrity, selflessness and valour. Ireland is profoundly grateful for all that you do. I also assure those of you who will remain separated from loved ones during this festive season that your sacrifice is greatly appreciated by the people of Ireland. Thar ceann mhuintir na hÉireann, guím Nollaig Shona daoibh agus gach rath agus séan oraibh san athbhliain. On behalf of all of the people of Ireland, may I wish you and your families a very Happy Christmas and a safe, flourishing and fulfilling New Year. Michael D. Higgins Uachtarán na hÉireann President of Ireland PRESIDENT MICHAEL D. HIGGINS CHRISTMAS MESSAGE