Defence Forces honour army chaplain who survived stabbing and forgave his attacker

Minister for defence Helen McEntee (left) and Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy (right) after Father Paul Murphy (centre) was presented with the Distinguished Service Medal, with merit, at Dun Ui Mhaoiliosa in Renmore Barracks on Thursday. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

An army chaplain who survived a stabbing incident at Renmore Barracks in Galway has been honoured for his courage and compassion and for the selflessness he showed towards his attacker.

Fr Paul Murphy received a distinguished service medal with merit, in recognition of his strength and dignity during and after the incident in August 2024. Three soldiers who came to his aid that night were also awarded for their bravery.