An army chaplain named Fr Paul Murphy, who was stabbed multiple times outside Renmore Barracks in Galway in August 2024, has received the Distinguished Service Medal with merit. The attack happened near the entrance to Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa when a teenage boy approached his car and assaulted him as he tried to enter. Fr Murphy made a full recovery after surgery and returned to his duties.
The migrant, who was 16 at the time, later pleaded guilty to attempted murder and received a ten-year sentence in 2025. During the court proceedings, Fr Murphy expressed forgiveness toward his attacker and hoped the young person could go on to make a positive contribution to society.
Three soldiers who responded to the incident were also honored at the same ceremony. Private Ciara Shanahan, who was on guard duty, raised the alarm and attempted to intervene unarmed. Corporal Daniel Padden, the guard commander, held a defensive position and prepared to use force if needed. Private Dylan Geraghty tackled the assailant after warnings and firing shots. They received the Distinguished Service Medal with merit, distinction, and honour respectively.
The awards were presented by Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy, Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, with Minister for Justice Helen McEntee in attendance. The Chief of Staff commended their actions for upholding the Defence Forces’ values, bringing credit to their unit, An Chéad Chathlán Coisithe, and strengthening public confidence. Fr Murphy thanked the force and praised the bravery of his colleagues who came to his aid.
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