Defence Forces News
Defence Forces Chief of Staff awarded the Distinguished Service Medal with Honour
Monday 19 April, 2010
The Chief Of Staff of the Defence Forces, Lieutenant General Dermot Earley, was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) with Honour in a private ceremony in the Curragh Camp during the week. The medal was presented to General Earley on Wednesday by An Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, in a ceremony which was attended by General Earley's family.
The Minister for Defence, Tony Kileen, T.D. and Deputy Chiefs of Staff, Major General Dave Ashe and Major General Sean McCann were also in attendance. The citation for the medal reads:
"For outstanding qualities of leadership, resource and devotion to duty as Chief of Staff in successfully commanding the Defence Forces for his period as Chief of Staff and for his distinguished service with the United Nations."
General Earley, who is currently on sick leave, indicated his intention to retire from the Defence Forces on a date to be announced in the coming weeks. His duties are currently being performed by the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support) Major General Dave Ashe.
Further information from:
Press Officer: Comdt. Neil Nolan 01 8042687 : 087 2482130
e-mail: Press Officer web: www.military.ie