An Cosantóir

U N Veteran Anthony Smalle was born in 1950. He enlisted in the Defence Forces on 12th September 1972, and served in 4 Inf Bn in Cork, 12 Inf Bn in Limerick and in 28 Inf Bn in County Donegal. He served one tour of duty with the United Nations with Number 1 Platoon, A Company 25 Infantry Group from 15th October 1973 to 9th May 1974. On 23rd Oct 1973, the main body of the unit travelled to Cyprus. The unit redeployed to Cairo via RAF Akrotiri on 31st Oct 1973 following the Yom Kippur War between Israel and its Arab neighbours. After completing six years' service, Anthony left the Defence Forces on 11 Sep 1978, and he emigrated to the UK. Every June, members of the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) travel to London (under the umbrella group of Na Fianna history Society) to participate in the Combined Irish Regiments Parade at the Cenotaph. The annual event brings together serving and former members of the Irish Defence Forces, along with veterans of disbanded associations, in a fitting act of remembrance and comradeship. This year's visit was particularly special as it provided an opportunity to honour Anthony Smalle with the presentation of his long-awaited United Nations Peacekeepers Medal. The story began through Ms Nessa Parkinson, an Associate Member of IUNVA Post Dublin and niece of the late Comdt Tony Roe, a respected member of Post 1. Nessa, who works as a Supervisor in Accommodation in London, met Anthony while at work. During a conversation, Anthony spoke of his service in the Defence Forces and his overseas deployments to Cyprus and the Sinai following the Yom Kippur War. After showing Nessa his medal, it became apparent that he had not received his UN Peacekeepers Medal as Anthony had left before the medal was introduced in 1989. Nessa contacted IUNVA seeking assistance and enquires were immediately made through the Defence Forces Ceremonial Section. Arrangements were made to secure the medal for Anthony and to arrange an appropriate presentation ceremony. IUNVA extends its sincere thanks to the Ceremonial Section for its invaluable assistance in ensuring that this deserving veteran received the recognition he has earned through his service. As part of the annual London visit, IUNVA members traditionally attend the Irish Embassy to meet with the Irish Ambassador. Through Second Secretary Ms Fionnula Egan, enquires were made to determine whether Ambassador Martin Fraser would be willing to present the medal personally. The Ambassador graciously agreed, and arrangements were made for Anthony and his family to attend a special ceremony at the Embassy on Friday 12th June 2026. The ceremony was attended by IUNVA members and retired members of the Defence Forces who had travelled to London for the parade weekend. Prior to the presentation, IUNVA National Vice President John Murray and Michael Thompson briefed the Ambassador on Anthony's military service and the background to the award. Ambassador Fraser warmly welcomed all those present to the Embassy. He spoke about the importance of the annual visit to London and the significance of the Combined Irish Regiments Parade. He thanked veterans for their service to Ireland, both at home and overseas missions throughout the years and acknowledging the sacrifices and commitment of all who had served. Michael Thompson outlined Anthony's military career and overseas service before Ambassador Fraser formally presented and pinned the United Nations Peacekeepers Medal on Anthony's jacket. The ceremony also provided an opportunity for IUNVA to make presentations to Ambassador Fraser. John Murray presented the Ambassador with a framed copy of The Soldier's Poem and wished him every success in his forthcoming appointment as Ireland's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York. On behalf of IUNVA, Michael Dillon of Post 1 presented Ambassador Fraser with an IUNVA plaque as a token of appreciation for his support and hospitality. The event was a fitting example of the camaraderie, dedication and commitment that continue to characterise the veteran's community. Most importantly, it ensured that a deserving veteran received the recognition he had earned through his service to peace under the United Nations Flag. AT THE IRISH EMBASSY AT THE IRISH EMBASSY IN LONDON IN LONDON A PROUD DAY A PROUD DAY ARTICLE BY MICHAEL THOMPSON - DEPUTY WELFARE OFFICER IUNVA | 27 www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE VETERANS

• Cover