Page 26 - Defence Forces Pictorial History

Peace Support Operations
Óglaigh na hÉireann
The Defence Forces

he involvement by the Defence Forces in Peace Support
Operations has been continuous since June 1958 when
T the frst group of Offcers went to Lebanon as observers
with UNOGIL. The majority of these missions have arisen in
recent years and refect the increased demand for intervention
in areas of confict. The bulk of the tours of duty have been
completed by infantry units in major force missions deployed
in the Congo, Cyprus and Lebanon and latterly in Liberia and
Kosovo. Other commitments have included headquarters and
specialist elements, logistical units, military police units and
military observers.

As well as with the United Nations, the Defence Forces have
served with missions conducted by the European Union, the
Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe and NATO-
Partnership for Peace. Personnel have also been committed to
humanitarian work in places such as Somalia and Rwanda.

The Defence Forces have amassed a wide range of skills and
experience in Peace Support Operations and wish to remain
abreast of developments. To do so the United Nations Training
School was established in 1993 and conducts courses for all
missions abroad and for students from other armed forces.

We are particularly mindful of the comrades who have lost their
lives while on duty abroad in the service of peace.

A Pictorial History of Óglaigh na hÉireann, the Defence Forces of Ireland