From PRO IUNVA
On Wednesday 19 Jun 2024, An Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin TD visited IUNVA HQ in Arbour Hill, Dublin. During his visit he laid a wreath in memory of those who died on overseas service. He paid special tribute to the DF personnel who served in the United Nations Operation in the Congo (ONUC), which concluded 60 years ago this month.
In his address to members, An Tánaiste said: “I am pleased to recognise and thank the members of IUNVA for the generations of dedicated service to the State and, particularly, to the most noble cause of international peacekeeping. This month marks the 60th anniversary of the conclusion of the United Nations Operation in the Congo, which was the first time that armed Irish troops were deployed on a UN Peacekeeping Mission. It has been my privilege to participate in the commemoration of this mission. I want to thank the veterans who took part in this important mission for their service. I also want to pay tribute to the twenty six Defence Forces personnel who lost their lives over the course of the mission in pursuit of peace.”
All photos credit Michael Thompson, National Welfare Officer.
