Top French honour for Chad mission commander

An Irish commander of the EU peacekeeping mission in Chad will receive France’s highest honour.

Lt Gen Pat Nash will be awarded the Officier de Legion d’Honnuer by French president Nicholas Sarkozy on Monday.

The Limerick-born officer, who is operational commander of the EUfor mission, is due to retire soon.

Defence Minister Willie O’Dea TD said Lt Gen Nash’s hard work and commitment ensured the success of the deployment.

“The outstanding professionalism and dedication he and his staff displayed is being recognised,” said the minister.

Defence Forces Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Dermot Earley said Lt Gen Nash established and led a credible, professional and impartial force with distinction.

“This award recognises this and I am delighted for him and his family.

“His award reflects the hard work by his international staff and troops in the mission.”

The Officier de Legion d’Honnuer medal is France’s highest accolade for people who distinguish themselves through civilian or military valour.

The award was initiated by the then first French Consul of the French Republic, Napoleon Bonaparte, in 1802.