Blessed are the Peacemakers...... The story of Irish - TopicsExpress

Blessed are the Peacemakers...... The story of Irish participation in South Lebanon is a story of continuity and commitment to a mission, a mandate and a people. The Irish Defence Forces have been involved with the United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon (UNIFIL) since its inception in 1978 and 47 Defence Forces personnel sadly lost their lives there in that period. The presence of Irish troops has undoubtedly helped restore normality to the area, as evidenced in the increase in population and economic activity. Today at Casement Aerodrome, 181 personnel from the 45th Infantry Group returned from Lebanon, having successfully completed their 6 month deployment, while their replacements, the 47th Infantry Group departed to their area of operations to continue Irelands ongoing commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. The 45th Infantry Group were drawn primarily from the Defence Forces Training Centre, the Air Corps and Naval Service, while the 47th Infantry Group are drawn from 1 Brigade. We congratulate the 45th Infantry Group on a job well done, and wish the 47th Infantry Group all the best for the tasks that await them. Photos by Sgt Damian Faulkner and Airman Jamie Barrett (Air Corps Photographic) A video of todays troop rotation by Defence Forces Audiovisual is available on the following link; youtu.be/o0j6wTBzojE , showing the joy and relief on families faces as they meet their loved ones again, including Private Gordon Poole who met his baby for the first time.