An Cosantóir

An Cosantóir January / February 2026 www.military.ie/magazine Overall Values Champion – Fr Paul Murphy "Fr Paul Murphy displayed and lived all the DF values at various times since his attack. From physical courage during the attack and his subsequent recovery and rehabilitation, loyalty to his fellow members of the DF, moral courage and integrity to forgive the perpetrator, to selflessness in deploying with his unit to UNIFIL so soon after the attack. He embodies our DF Values and has lived them over the last number of months and displayed each one to both members of the DF and the public. Through his actions he has done more for the positive perception of the DF and promoted our true culture and identity among the general public." " Whether providing counselling to soldiers coping with the mental and emotional toll of deployment or offering a listening ear to those in need of support, Fr Murphy has made a profound impact on countless lives" "Fr Paul shows unmatched dedication to inductees, families and personnel serving overseas, his selfless service, guidance and positive attitude make him a prime example of the Best of the DF, He is an ambassador for the DF and Ireland." Physical Courage – Sgt John Ainsworth – 1 Cn Cois Sgt John Ainsworth displayed exceptional physical courage and quick thinking during a critical incident while off duty. On 24 June 2024, while driving with his son, he observed a man falling backwards into the water at Galway Commercial boat club, in apparent distress. Without hesitation Sgt Ainsworth stopped his car, instructed his son to call emergency services and jumps into the water to rescue the man. Demonstrating both bravery and composure he reached the individual swiftly, stabilised him and ensured his safety until emergency personnel arrived. His actions undoubtedly prevented a drowning and exemplify the highest standards of courage, decisiveness and selflessness under pressure. Despite being off duty, his instinct was to act immediately placing himself at significant personal risk in order to preserve the life of another. Integrity – NS team LÉ Aoibhinn Lt (NS) Patrick McGovern, AS Alan Hourigan, AS Daithí Sheehan While on patrol off the SE coast in August 2024, the team boarded a RHIB and proceeded to an area where a body of a man, matching the description of a missing kayaker, had reportedly been seen. They proceeded close to the shore in very difficult weather conditions, in order to effect a recovery of the body from the water. They succeeded in removing the body from the water and placed it into a body bag on‑board the RHIB. The process was difficult as the deceased had sustained damage from rocks and marine life in the area overnight. The team showed incredible integrity, professionalism and respect throughout the recovery in the public setting. The team accompanied the remains to the lifeboat station, gave statements to An Garda Síochána and assisted with the preparation of the remains for transport by a local undertaker. They further received a request to meet with the family of the deceased man, who was a UK national on holiday in the region 18 | DF VALUES DF VALUES CHAMPIONS 2024 CHAMPIONS 2024 A/B Alan Hourigan – LÉ AOIBHINN Pte Patrick Murphy - OBTS Sgt Ian McGee - 2BAR

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