THREE members of the Defence Forces were yesterday presented with distinguished service medals by the Minister for Defence, Mr Barrett, at a presentation ceremony at Collins Barracks, Cork.
The three are Sgt Michael Fleming of the 12th Battalion, Clonmel, Co Tipperary; Cpl Timothy McCarthy of the Third Garrison Ordnance Company, Collins Barracks, Cork; and Cpl Aidan O'Halloran, of the Third Garrison Military Police Company, Collins Barracks, Cork.
Sgt Fleming is due to return to Lebanon next week on his fifth overseas posting.
His citation reads: "For distinguished service with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, for courage, leadership and devotion to duty, while acting as NCO in charge of Post 642 Brachit, south Lebanon, when the post was subjected to sustained and intense shelling and air attack, resulting in repeated firings close and direct hits, during the period 25th July 1993 until relieved on 29th July.
"He commanded his post with exceptional dedication and resourcefulness, maintaining the post's security and effectiveness throughout".
Cpl McCarthy was awarded his medal for his actions during the same incident. His citation reads: "For his calmness, courage and devotion to duty .... in reaching and manning his assigned defensive position when the Scheme of Defence for his post was put into effect on 25th July 1993, although he was subjected to intense and effective direct hostile fire, and for displaying marked qualities of leadership as an acting Corporal, second in Command of his post, during a period of sustained and intense shelling and air attack between 25th July 1993 and 29th July 1993. His good humour, care and compassion for his comrades were an inspiration to others and contributed significantly to the maintenance of morale and the operational efficiency of his post".
Cpl O'Halloran, now with the Military Police, joined the Naval Service in 1981. He was given his award for diving into the sea from the Department of Defence vessel, David F, while it was en route from Cobh to Haulbowline, to rescue Able Steward Darran Martyn who had fallen overboard.
"He demonstrated initiative and bravery, when with little regard for his own safety he, despite the coldness of the night and in the face of considerable tide, voluntarily jumped into the sea". The incident happened on September 28th, 1994.