On the 15th August, 2024 at the main gate of Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Fr Paul Murphy was returning to barracks in his vehicle.
Fr Murphy was approached by an assailant under the guide of needing assistance and was attacked with a knife on the lowering of his car's window. Private Ciara Shanahan, on gate duty, immediately alerted the Barrack Guard and proceeded to attempt to deter the attacker, all whilst being unarmed. The Guard Commander, Corporal Daniel Padden accompanied by another member of the Barrack Guard, Private Dylan Geraghty responded rapidly, by issuing verbal warnings followed by warning shots, before Private Geraghty tackled the assailant and removed the threat from Fr Murphy while Cpl Padden maintained a defensive position ready to escalate force if necessary. Simultaneously, other personnel arrived and provided swift medical aid to Fr Murphy, immobilised the attacker, notified Gardaí and secured the scene.
The swift and courageous action of the members of Oglaigh na hÉireann ensured no loss of life occurred and demonstrated exceptional bravery and professionalism under extreme pressure. For their actions, the three duty personnel will be awarded:
Corporal Daniel Padden, the Distinguished Service Medal, with Distinction
Private Dylan Geraghty, the Distinguished Service Medal, with Honour
Private Ciara Shanahan, the Distinguished Service Medal, with Merit
Finally, for his distinguished service arising from a violent attack on himself and for personifying the Defence Forces Core Values in the aftermath, the following medal will be awarded:
Father Paul Murphy, the Distinguished Service Medal, with Merit.
On the awarding of the medals, the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy said: “The awarding of Distinguished Service Medals to these four members of Óglaigh na hÉireann is a fitting and well deserved recognition of their courage, professionalism and moral resolve in the face of a violent attack on Father Paul Murphy.
Their actions exemplify the very highest standards of Óglaigh na hÉireann. In a moment of extreme danger, they acted decisively, selflessly and with complete regard for the protection of life. This outcome is a direct reflection of the rigorous training, discipline and values instilled in our personnel throughout their careers.
I am immensely proud of these soldiers. Their conduct brings great pride, to their unit, An Chéad Chathlán Coisithe (The 1st Infantry Battalion), and to the Defence Forces as a whole, and it reinforces the trust placed in us by the people we serve.”
The Distinguished Service Medals will be awarded by the Minister for Defence, Ms Helen McEntee next month at a ceremony in Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa Barracks. Media Invite to follow.
Ends.
