Leaving Lebanon - Stand down with pride

OUR ARMY, and by association all of us, can be very proud of the 24 years of dedicated service our troops have given to trying to establish peace in that war-torn, beautiful place — Lebanon.

At many times during that long tour of duty it would have been easy to question the ability of the Irish to make peace such was the depth of the conflict dividing this island. However, our soldiers earned a reputation for fairness and objectivity that has continued to characterise their efforts in that country, characteristics that made the success of their mission possible.

Though the troops were on the frontline their families at home also made sacrifices to ensure that Ireland played a meaningful role in United Nations’ peace missions.

At a time when so much in public life is a cause for frustration and derision it should be a pleasure for us all to acknowledge a job well done.