A BEECHMOUNT man has been honoured by the United Nations and the Irish Defence Forces in recognition of his service with the UN Peacekeepers.
Tiarnan O'Halloran, aged 25, joined the Irish Defence Forces three years ago. He has been awarded the United Nations UNIFIL Medal in recognition of his service on his first overseas tour. He will also be awarded the Irish Defence Forces UN Peacekeepers Medal at the end of this tour.
The Irish Defence Forces have been providing support in peacekeeping missions since 1958. The UN say that "Peacekeeping is the largest and most visible representation of the United Nations. It is a collective investment in global peace, security, and stability."
Tiarnan has been stationed in Southern Lebanon with the 128th Infantry Battalion as a Signaller and Radio Man within the platoon. He has colleagues within the unit from countries such as Italy, Poland and Hungary.
Tiarnan being presented with his medal by Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee
One of three children, his sister Danielle said that when he decided to join the Defence Forces he was searching for some discipline in his life.
"He was looking to join for self-growth," she said. "He wasn't doing too well, was trying to figure himself out and needed the discipline.
"From he's joined he has become a better person. The self-discipline, confidence and resilience against everything is unreal," she continued.
Danielle said it is difficult for the family when Tiarnan is away from home and they don't hear from him for long periods.
"My wee mummy is in a state! She's always worried sick, but you know he's a tough lad. You always hope that he's going to be fine. Obviously you do have that wee doubt. Anything can happen and you never know, but you just hope he'll be okay, but mummy's nerves be wrecked."
Tiarnan is due home for two weeks later this month, just a couple of days before his twenty-sixth birthday. Danielle said they will have a "big celebration" when he gets home, and that his young daughter can't wait to see him.
"He FaceTimes with her every night if he can, and he's so excited to get home and see her. He really misses her.
"Tiarnan said that although he has seen lots of things that aren't nice, he feels unreal in himself – his confidence, his personal growth, learning everybody's different ways and seeing the world," continued Danielle.
"He's very grateful for even being given this opportunity.
"If I were to say anything it's just how proud everybody is of him. It's hard to put it into other words except proud, because there's nothing else for it. We cannot wait to have him home."
