12/02/2026
Well done to Paul F. Murphy , Waterford unit former chaplain and his army colleagues on receiving the Óglaigh na hÉireann / Irish Defence Forces Distinguished Service Medals today at a ceremony in Renmore Barracks, Galway. Presented by the Minister of Defence.
🌟Massive congratulation to Chaplain to the Irish Association, Fr Paul Murphy (and an active member of Order of Malta Ireland Ambulance Corps - Waterford Unit) who today was awarded a distinguished service medal with merit for “personifying the Defence Forces’ core values in the aftermath” of an violent attack on him at Renmore Barracks in 2024. Three solders who came to Fr Paul's aid and responded to the incident were also awarded distinguished service medals.
Confirming what we all know in The Order of Malta, Minister for Defence McEntee said “In the aftermath he also showed remarkable leadership by acknowledging those who responded to the attack and demonstrating profound compassion through his forgiveness of the assailant – your strength of character and moral courage are an inspiration to us all.”
Fr Paul has consistently shown compassion, kindness and support to many in the Ambulance Corps and Association over the years and his forgiveness his attacker is a true reflection of his character no matter what uniform he wears.
Well done again Fr Paul, a well deserved recognition.
Pictured:
Minister for Defence Helen McEntee is pictured alongside Fr Paul Murphy, Private Dylan Geraghty, Private Ciara Shanahan, Corporal Daniel Padden and Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy
https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/12/army-chaplain-who-forgave-attacker-awarded-distinguished-service-medal/