Tom Gunn: Decision not to award medals for defence of Jadotville 'a kick in the teeth'

The former soldier from Tipperary recalls that the mother of one soldier, who he suspects was 15, was still collecting children's allowance for him

Some of the Irish troops in Jadotville. Tom Gunn is in the middle row holding s FN Rifle under his left arm with arms crossed. Photo: Leo Quinlan

Having better accommodation and food while imprisoned than provided by the United Nations (UN), and comforting a couple of younger comrades during the battle “who were just 15 and 16-year-olds” are some of the abiding memories for Tom Gunn.

Tom, who is originally from Mullinahone, Co. Tipperary, but who now lives in Mullingar, joined up when he was just 15-and-a-half years old.