An Cosantóir

| 19 with his family. The team met with the family and answered all questions on the recovery and it was a very emotional process. The family later contacted the NS and outlined how grateful they were for their actions. Respect – Sgt Mick Meehan CMU/125 Inf Bn UNIFIL Nominated across many categories Sgt Meehan is described as showing our core values throughout his service overseas with 125 Inf Bn. Referred to as the pillar of the Medical Section, he was credited with being a tremendous leader who maintains professionalism to his trade and expertise. "Throughout all phases of pre deployment training, and throughout the mission itself he has shown the highest levels of respect to all he came in contact with. He is a great role model for his peers but also a great mentor to the younger generation of medical personnel" Loyalty – Pte Patrick Murphy OBTS Pte Murphy was nominated by his Unit members for Loyalty. He was described as being loyal to his unit, his work friends and the Defence Forces and is always willing to help. He holds the rank of Private but as a result of his loyalty, service and experience in his unit, he gives and is sought out for advice to all ranks. He consistently demonstrates loyalty within the OBTS going above and beyond to support his fellow comrades. He was described as the most valuable staff member within OBTS and as a tireless worker demonstrating unit loyalty and unwavering dedication to his team. He accepts responsibility and applies his own high standards when dealing with high value stack and specialist equipment. When a new staff member arrives Pte Murphy will naturally but subtly supervise and offer advice such is his loyalty to the small team in OBTS. Selflessness – Sgt Ian McGee 2 BAR In September 2024 Sgt Ian McGee assisted in an RTA in Co Meath. A school bus with 27 children and a driver left the road and overturned into an adjacent field. Being one of the first people on-scene Sgt McKee took charge of managing the accident site and co-ordinating the other attendees who had also stopped. He firstly had to identify a means to disable the engine to stop the wheels from continuing to turn. Using his limited knowledge of mechanics he did this successfully. He then broke a back window to safely evacuate the young passengers from the vehicle and triaged the injured while also administering first aid. His composure and courage to take action in very challenging circumstances was noted by NAS officers who attended the scene and who recognised the skills and leadership demonstrated by Sgt McGee. His selfless actions in those crucial moments exemplifies the professionalism and best of the DF. Moral Courage – Cpl Michael O Brien, 1 BAR During a Potential NCOs course Cpl O'Brien demonstrated exceptional moral courage when he recognised and acted upon unfair and inappropriate treatment of fellow students. His actions exemplified the DF values and highlighted his commitment to fairness, respect and the well-being of his peers. Despite the potential risk to his own position and standing, in witnessing a situation where individuals were being treated unfairly, contrary to the standards expected of DF instructors, he reported the issue through proper channels ensuring the matter was addressed. By taking this step he showed unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and mutual respect. His actions required significant moral courage being a fellow student on a career course and could have resulted in him being in a vulnerable position. However, he prioritised the welfare of his fellow students and the integrity of the course over any potential personal risk. His decision to speak out against injustice is a shining example of moral courage. www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE Guest of honour at the recent DF Values Awards, Mr Jonathan Shackleton is the cousin of the Kildare born Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. He is the family historian for the Irish Shackleton's, and has accompanied 45 groups on trips to the Antarctic in the past 25 years as historian, guide and photographer. He is a contributor to multiple talks and events on the Antarctic and Shackleton's explorations. He is also the author with John MacKenna of "Shackleton - An Irishman in Antarctica" about Ernest Shackleton with emphasis on the Shackleton family. Most recently he was the invited guest at the opening of the Shackleton Experience in Athy, Co. Kildare Fr Paul Murphy Cpl Michael O'Brien – 1 BAR Sgt John Ainsworth - 1 CN COIS Lt (NS) Patrick McGovern - LÉ AOIBHINN Sgt Mick Meehan – CMU

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