New medal ??

[kaiser]

has anyone heared about a new medal coming on issue next yr to the df ?
it is apparently for the 100 year anniversary of the irish volunteers?

or is it the rumour machine again?

[Rhodes]

has anyone heared about a new medal coming on issue next yr to the df ?
it is apparently for the 100 year anniversary of the irish volunteers?

or is it the rumour machine again?

Someone made a proposal to the Government that a commemoration medal be issued to mark the centenary of the Irish Volunteers but it hasn't been confirmed if they will do it or not.
Seems a bit silly to me. Medals should be earned and not handed out for anniversaries.

[Celtic-Warrior]

I heard that from a few people

[kaiser]

Someone made a proposal to the Government that a commemoration medal be issued to mark the centenary of the Irish Volunteers but it hasn't been confirmed if they will do it or not.
Seems a bit silly to me. Medals should be earned and not handed out for anniversaries.


i agree they should be earned..

[apod]

Heard the same form the lads in the clothing stores.They deal with the DF clothing procurement guys who buy the medals.Supposed to be going ahead but who knows.Would be nice to mark our centenary.

[Tango_Charlie]

Medals should be earned and not handed out for anniversaries.

+1

[kaiser]

will it be a case of time will tell or does any no the score??

[popeye]

I hear it will only be issued to the PDF which is ironic really.

[Tango_Charlie]

In the time i have been in the army I have personally witnessed and heard stories of acts and deeds, carried out by Irish defence forces personnel going above and beyond the call of duty at home and overseas that warranted official recognition and acknowledgement, but none was forthcoming in most instances. True bravery and fortitude displayed when others would have crumbled.

On the flipside I've seen persons awarded DSM's and made honorary member of the legion of whatever all for simply doing the job which they were already being quite handsomely paid to do.

And now somebody with feck all else to do wants to hand out medals for nothing? The occasion should be marked and celebrated most definitely, but a medal for nothing? Stupid!!!!

[thedollar]

I hear it will only be issued to the PDF which is ironic really.

Very small minded and thoughtless of the contribution of serving RDF members who volunteer to parade and train without being paid for most of their efforts.

[Rhodes]

Very small minded and thoughtless of the contribution of serving RDF members who volunteer to parade and train without being paid for most of their efforts.

RDF already have a service medal for such.

[thedollar]

RDF already have a service medal for such.

Meant if they do go ahead with striking a commemorative medal only for PDF.

But I agree with you, medals should be earned not handed out.

[northie]

Meant if they do go ahead with striking a commemorative medal only for PDF.

But I agree with you, medals should be earned not handed out.

The striking of medals for anniversaries (for mass issue) is quite prevalent in the armed forces of monarchies, I expect RGJ will be due one for the queens jubilee.

[thedollar]

Where did the suggestion to strike this medal come from? Was it DFHQ or did one of the Representative Associations request it?

[HavocIRL]

In the time i have been in the army I have personally witnessed and heard stories of acts and deeds, carried out by Irish defence forces personnel going above and beyond the call of duty at home and overseas that warranted official recognition and acknowledgement, but none was forthcoming in most instances. True bravery and fortitude displayed when others would have crumbled.

On the flipside I've seen persons awarded DSM's and made honorary member of the legion of whatever all for simply doing the job which they were already being quite handsomely paid to do.

And now somebody with feck all else to do wants to hand out medals for nothing? The occasion should be marked and celebrated most definitely, but a medal for nothing? Stupid!!!!

I know a guy who was given a medal for gallantry from another nation for his actions overseas, wasn't even given a good report from the irish army for it. Naturally because its a medal from another countries armed forces he's not allowed to wear it.

Ridiculous. If it was a general who was given it you could guarantee he'd be wearing it.

[kaiser]

I hear it will only be issued to the PDF which is ironic really.


were did you hear that?? and why ironic???

[goc132]

Several Members of the Defenc Forces have been awarded the NATO Meritorious Service Medal MSM in the last two years i Officer and 2 NCO's.
The dilemma for the Irsih Defence Forces is that the BMC (MMG) and the BSD (DSM) are the only two awards that can be issued for acts of heroism,Meritorious service,for leaders ship or for highlighting the profile of the Defence Forces in other ways.
Most Armies all over the world have several awards that can cover all aspects of recognising acts therefore allowing the award of such medals.
The fact that the Defence Force have only two such awards leave the bar too high and thus members of the DF are not put forward for awards. The New Zeland Defence Forces is a good example and it is basically the same size as our own DF.
I relation to the topic in this section most countries record silver,golden,diamond Jubilee medals as did the Garda in this country in 1972 (Jubilee Medal) and in 2000 (Millennium Medal) ,

[danno]

Whats the worst dilemma,getting an undeserved merit medal or everybody getting one regardless.

[FoxtrotRK]

were did you hear that?? and why ironic???

Well, the Volunteers were part-time soldiers who served in a voluntary basis, with wildly varying standards of training and equipment, and with often no more than token units in rural locations.

[Docman]

were did you hear that?? and why ironic???

Probably ironic in the fact that the Irish Volunteers were a part-time force who suffered from equipment shortages, lack of uniforms. The Irish Volunteers and sucessors fought a full time force and didn't become full time itself until 1921.

[timhorgan]

danno;369217]Whats the worst dilemma,getting an undeserved merit medal or everybody getting one regardless.[/QUOTE]


To my mind the situation can only create huge embarrassment. Let me give you an example.

If you had a Millenium Medal say and then a Jubilee Medal or whatever, and, being perfectly entitled to them but if you had no medals for operational service in a combat zone during that time period would you not feel a little sheepish on parade. This is a serious question,

Long Service, Good Conduct etc. by all means but let us not devalue the concept.

[goc132]

does anyone on this board think the British devalue the awarding of medals look up their site before you answer

[Truck Driver]

RDF already have a service medal for such.

Errr, the PDF also have a Service Medal....

[kaiser]

i wonder how many they will make? if they are making them!!
how many troops in the rdf would be able to get one??
also where does it stop would there be one for the centenary of 1916

[thedollar]

i wonder how many they will make? if they are making them!!
how many troops in the rdf would be able to get one??
also where does it stop would there be one for the centenary of 1916

And you also have the anniversary of start of the War of Independance, the establishment of the Free State, the establishment National Army?

Is there really any point in medals commemorating an anniversary of an historical event?

[RoyalGreenJacket]

If you had a Millenium Medal say and then a Jubilee Medal or whatever, and, being perfectly entitled to them but if you had no medals for operational service in a combat zone during that time period would you not feel a little sheepish on parade. This is a serious question,

Long Service, Good Conduct etc. by all means but let us not devalue the concept.

the award of such particular medals has nothing to do with service in a 'combat zone' - everybody knows exactly what they are for and as such nobody would think any less of those wearing them - however most lads with required service for such medals will surely have qualified for operational service in a combat zone somewhere along the line - so they've done their bit and fair play to them.

medals awarded for someone elses special occasion / anniversary don't really carry much weight and we consider those 'gizzits', but they do recognise service and and to that end i think any medal seen fit to be awarded deserves respect.

medals are awarded for a reason and if a medal is struck for the anniversary of the 'Irish Volunteers' then wear it with pride.

[Rhodes]

Errr, the PDF also have a Service Medal....

No Shit, Sherlock.

[goc132]

Well said Royal Green Jacket

[Socrates]

I'm new to this forum so go easy on me lads haha

I hope this does actually happen and while I do agree that medals should be earned, but this is clearly a special case so why not mass issue this medal??, It didn't do the Gardaí any harm after all!!

I don't see why the RDF shouldn't be issued this medal also (The FCA stand down medal in 2005 didn't cause much of a fuss and can be seen as a precedent for this situation), one way it could be issued is that an eligibility requirement should be at least 2 years prior service for this medal or something like that??,

The problem In my opinion is that The Defense Forces as a whole lacks a dedicated system for awarding medals, all there is really is the MMG, Service medals and Overseas Tour Medals. The Defense Forces would benefit greatly if they introduced for example their own version of the Purple Heart and say award the MMG for lesser acts of Valor and create (along with a whole range of new medals) a purpose made highest military honor (equivalent to the U.S Medal of Honor and Victoria Cross) that all members are eligible for and can strive to achieve.

[Centurion]

If may be permitted to go off on a slight tangent concerning the possible issue of the 'Volunteer Medal'. Quite apart from properly marking an important historical event, there is a need to reclaim ownership of the title 'Irish Volunteers'. Every one of us who serves, or who has served, whether regular or reservist, did so as a member of 'Oglaigh na hEireann' - The Irish Volunteers. We need only look at our tunic buttons to be reminded of this. Unfortunately, over the years, that title has been usurped by individuals and organisations whose aims are contrary to the constituition which every member of the Defence Forces swears to uphold. I doubt if there are any of us who would not be happy to see the DF taking the high ground and reminding the Irish public that the Defence Forces are the only body which can legitimately claim to be the successors to the Irish Volunteers of 1916 and to use that title.

"It shall be lawful for the Government to raise, train, equip, arm, pay and maintain defence forces to be called and known as Óglaigh na hÉireann or (in English) the Defence Forces".

S.16 Defence Act 1954

[Truck Driver]

No Shit, Sherlock.

Ah, it speaks.... :eek:

[Truck Driver]

I'm new to this forum so go easy on me lads haha

I hope this does actually happen and while I do agree that medals should be earned, but this is clearly a special case so why not mass issue this medal??, It didn't do the Gardaí any harm after all!!

I don't see why the RDF shouldn't be issued this medal also (The FCA stand down medal in 2005 didn't cause much of a fuss and can be seen as a precedent for this situation), one way it could be issued is that an eligibility requirement should be at least 2 years prior service for this medal or something like that??,

The problem In my opinion is that The Defense Forces as a whole lacks a dedicated system for awarding medals, all there is really is the MMG, Service medals and Overseas Tour Medals. The Defense Forces would benefit greatly if they introduced for example their own version of the Purple Heart and say award the MMG for lesser acts of Valor and create (along with a whole range of new medals) a purpose made highest military honor (equivalent to the U.S Medal of Honor and Victoria Cross) that all members are eligible for and can strive to achieve.

Welcome Socrates... on the two highlighted points above...


The FCA Stand Down medal never happened, although the idea was floated

Also the DSM...

[Socrates]

Oh, my mistake lads, sorry about that.

[Connaught Stranger]

Probably ironic in the fact that the Irish Volunteers were a part-time force who suffered from equipment shortages, lack of uniforms. The Irish Volunteers and sucessors fought a full time force and didn't become full time itself until 1921.

Even more ironic that many of them (I.V.F.) marched off to join the British Army and fight in WW1.

Connaught Stranger

[Socrates]

Anybody hear any new developments on this since this thread was started??

[kaiser]

i havint but will put out the feelers in work

[Connaught Stranger]

The history of medal issues for the P.D.F. Other Ranks is dismal, remember the "The Good Conduct Medal" aka "The Hangman's Medal." debacle.

[FMolloy]

In relation to the topic in this section most countries record silver,golden,diamond Jubilee medals as did the Garda in this country in 1972 (Jubilee Medal) and in 2000 (Millennium Medal)

I can count the number of Gardaí I've seen wear either medal on the fingers of one hand. I don't see much point in issuing a medal that's going to end up in a drawer somewhere.

[morpheus]

probably because in ireland the wearing of medals is not something that is commonly done / recognised by most people. there seems to be a cultural mentality (outside of the DF at least) of not really showing things like this off maybe?

[Connaught Stranger]

probably because in ireland the wearing of medals is not something that is commonly done / recognised by most people. there seems to be a cultural mentality (outside of the DF at least) of not really showing things like this off maybe?

Then the only way to change it, is to start issuing some more medals, insignia, push the wearing of ribbon bars by not only the military but Police etc..etc.

The issuing of new medals has always been on left on the back burner, particularly by the bean-counters in the DoD or Department of Finance. they seem to run on the "well they got along fine without them before now" mentality.

My own gripe is the lack of any commemorative medal for those who put years in on the border, but being an old 28th Bn hand maybe I am biased. :tongue:

Connaught Stranger.

[Socrates]

there does seem to be a perception alright that DF Command or DoD are unwilling or scared to issue medals, any word on this one??

[Jungle]

My own gripe is the lack of any commemorative medal for those who put years in on the border, but being an old 28th Bn hand maybe I am biased. :tongue:

Connaught Stranger.

If you don't mind me getting involved here; we do not get medals for domestic ops either. I know there are historical precedents, like the North-West rebellion and the Fenian raids, but it has not been done in a very long time, including the Oka Crisis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oka_Crisis).

[Hello Alaska]

there does seem to be a perception alright that DF Command or DoD are unwilling or scared to issue medals, any word on this one??

Not so much scared or unwilling, they just don't really give a bollocks.

It's ok though, instead, they focus on other important stuff like making sure all our uniform is plastered in "Defence Forces Ireland" or new Arms Drill.

[FMolloy]

probably because in ireland the wearing of medals is not something that is commonly done / recognised by most people. there seems to be a cultural mentality (outside of the DF at least) of not really showing things like this off maybe?

There's no issue with Gardaí wearing medals for overseas service, including those earned with the PDF, or the Scott medal. I've seen members of the DFB wear UN medals too.

[Docman]

But the opposite side of the coin is the criticism of the US Army for their issuing of medals for just about anything. They caused major controversy in Grenada when everyone and their auntie got medals galore, even combat medals. The sheer volume of Purple Hearts issued for a "Police Action" was scary.

It does mean that each and every Irish medal earned is earned.

[hedgehog]

Its not a makey up medal

its a medal issued to commenerate an important part of our National and Military history- therefore wear it with pride.

I think the RDF should also get it in that they have volunteered to serve as well.

There has to be a cut off point and I dont think the likes of exers like me should receive it- it will cost me a forturne to remount my medals

[goc132]

Lots op people think the US forces get too many medals and I suppose there are some that could be one with out but in the Irish Defence Forces they are slow to issue medals.

The UK Forces have an "Accumulative Service Medal" which is issued after 18 months over seas afaik and its in Sterling Silver.
The Good Conduct Medal should be re introduced but with a proper criteria and on issue to all members of the DF when they retire with a Clean record either RDF/PDF.

[mercurydoc]

this is a big thing with the PDF Cadre, jaysus our lad is a savage soldier he has this course, that course, he topped this and that.........it's his ****ing job! whilst i do respect them thats what they signed to do.


christ it's only a medal.

[danno]

A pay/pension rise might be a better way of displaying appreciation.

[Buck]

A pay/pension rise might be a better way of displaying appreciation.

Two chances of that! No hope and Bob Hope...Bob hope is dead.

[jack nastyface]

http://youtu.be/8qkSe4YM7EY

[Socrates]

True that!haha, or how they insist that the most ridiclious things are in Irish DPM, I like the american system for awarding medals, especially the Purple Heart, the medal rack is something to take pride in, it should be the case here aswell.

[Socrates]

From the RDFRA Facebook page:

" RDFRA has been informed that it's submission to have all serving members of the Reserve Defence Forces issued with this medal on the centenary of the anniversary has been accepted. More information will be posted as soon as it is known."


Looks like it's for real.

[Sluggie]

From the RDFRA Facebook page:

" RDFRA has been informed that it's submission to have all serving members of the Reserve Defence Forces issued with this medal on the centenary of the anniversary has been accepted. More information will be posted as soon as it is known."

Looks like it's for real.

http://debates.oireachtas.ie/dail/2012/04/18/00725.asp

This is from Alan Shatter in April. Sorry if it has been posted before.

The medal remains a proposal at this time it appears. RDFRA seem to be indicating that the RDF are included in the proposal.

[Bravo20]

Well he is using phrases like "all serving members of the defence forces" that usually means they will include the RDF in the proposal (though I would note that he hasn't made a decision yet)

[BANDIT]

Medals ,, not now of all times ,, wait until there is a bit of a war or mission or something .. hand out St Christopher medals , more use if u believe in taht sort of thing ..

[apod]

Medals ,, not now of all times ,, wait until there is a bit of a war or mission or something .. hand out St Christopher medals , more use if u believe in taht sort of thing ..
Give the trolling a rest will ya?

[hedgehog]

Well done on the medal, I heard that the RDF will also get it, i must buy shares in the company that makes the two ribbon holders

[goc132]

There are anniversaries in all countries that award medals to record history not just in books.

[Socrates]

According to the RDFRA reservists will be getting it. From a collectors Facebook page



" I've heard the lads talking about it & they have also seen the medal design but most are not happy with the bar & the way in which it is going to be mounted. I have not seen it yet myself."

[Truck Driver]

Well he is using phrases like "all serving members of the defence forces" that usually means they will include the RDF in the proposal (though I would note that he hasn't made a decision yet)

I do believe that when the phrase "serving members of the defence forces" was used in a different context before, the then serving CoS (beloved of Hedgie)
clarified that this does include the RDF

[Law of the sea]

''RDFRA has been informed that it's submission to have all serving members of the Reserve Defence Forces issued with this medal on the centenary of the anniversary has been accepted.''

Fairly unambiguous above. Will ye and others in the Defence Forces be happy to wear such a medal?

[Goldie fish]

the submission has been accepted is a bit like saying we posted a strongly worded letter. Next someone must read it, and then, even more unlikely, act on its contents.

[DeV]

DF includes RDF when it's suits.

[morpheus]

Why wouldnt we be happy to wear a commemoration medal? were on completely the other scale to some armies as regards medal issuance - US army is like the scouts with merit badges. Youd swear the DF couldnt afford to make medals or something here but at the same time, it means there is more significance attached to medals when they are issued and rightly so. just my opinion.

[DeV]

Or our nearest neighbours that issued a medal for their bosses' official birthday!

[hptmurphy]

My own gripe is the lack of any commemorative medal for those who put years in on the border, but being an old 28th Bn hand maybe I am biased

didn't ye get an allowance and still get it..a medal as well greedy gits!!!:-D

Medals for being in the army at the time of an anniversary is ridiculous.

Awards for service..ok.......god conduct....yep that was fine by me, deeds of bravery....fine....for COS turning up to work...no fcuking way...

Anniversarys......just wrong. if thats the case I want a medal for surving twnty odd years of marriage !

[morpheus]

whats good conduct entail and do we have a medal for that? cos im always really good. im a nice decent bloke, i even polish my boots. thats good conduct too!

[BANDIT]

wll said HT, Israelis dont seem to give out many medals .North Koreans do .. There was a time when the DF gave out very few medals, A DSM ws something now it seems to be given out for good service it has lost some of its value..

[Socrates]

wll said HT, Israelis dont seem to give out many medals .North Koreans do .. There was a time when the DF gave out very few medals, A DSM ws something now it seems to be given out for good service it has lost some of its value..

The DF still give out very few medals, Aside from Service medals (DSM Included), the odd MMG or MS and overseas deployment medals, frankly they don't give out many other medals because they more or less don't have any other medals

[Goldie fish]

whats good conduct entail and do we have a medal for that? cos im always really good. im a nice decent bloke, i even polish my boots. thats good conduct too!

Good conduct is gone a few years. Many referred to it as the "never got caught".

[ollie]

Awards for service..ok

Anniversarys......just wrong. if thats the case I want a medal for surving twnty odd years of marriage !


She hasnt killed you yet, is that not enough of a medal for ya ?

So if this medal is going to be issued to all, what about ex members who in many cases, gave decades of service ?

[Connaught Stranger]

didn't ye get an allowance and still get it..a medal as well greedy gits!!!:-D

Medals for being in the army at the time of an anniversary is ridiculous.

Awards for service..ok.......god conduct....yep that was fine by me, deeds of bravery....fine....for COS turning up to work...no fcuking way...

Anniversarys......just wrong. if thats the case I want a medal for surving twnty odd years of marriage !

Actually the Border Allowance after tax paid less than that for a non-border stationed soldier down the country claiming for each specific duty. The Border Allowance was a flat rate regardless of how many Guards, Patrols, Stand-too's etc.. etc.. you did a week.

The tradition of awarding military personnel a commemorative medal is well established throughout Europe, from about 1800 onwards.

The Good Conduct Medal was dropped after two years, looking here at the list of recipients it was mainly for senior NCOs with just 1 Trooper, 1 Gunner, 6 Privates as opposed to 10 BQMS's - 11 RSM's - 6 BSM, 21 CQMS.

Medal for Marriage: there was one in Communist Poland believe it or not!

Connaught Stranger.

[Truck Driver]

The Good Conduct Medal was dropped after two years, looking here at the list of recipients it was mainly for senior NCOs with just 1 Trooper, 1 Gunner, 6 Privates as opposed to 10 BQMS's - 11 RSM's - 6 BSM, 21 CQMS...

Firstly C-S, where is that list (out of idle curiosity)

Secondly, one of those 21 CQMSs was actaully a SQMS and my former Cadre Q...

[goc132]

No member of the Reserve ever received the "Good Conduct Medal" but if was correctly awarded then it would be still on issue and I think when all the present recipients are retired the GDM should be reintroduced with proper standards been taken into account in fact it is a lovely medal and I have one in my collection.

[hptmurphy]

whats good conduct entail ....equated to '21 years of undetected crime,' mate of mine got the senior one in the NS , a small few issued there.

Nice concept but was maniplutated and ethos destroyed as has the DSM.




Medal for Marriage: there was one in Communist Poland believe it or not!


Depending on another' 21 years of undetected crime' no doubt!

In America you get the Nationa Service medal for joining up...how bad!!!!:frown:

[Connaught Stranger]

Firstly C-S, where is that list (out of idle curiosity)

Secondly, one of those 21 CQMSs was actaully a SQMS and my former Cadre Q...

I did not post the full rank list pf awards, but a sumary of the high ranking NCO's who got it, I did not add in a SQMS as he was the only SQMS listed so in my opinion did not need to be included under C.Q.M.S.'s.

My list includes all those by name and rank and unit they were serving in at the time of award.

Connaught Stranger.

[kaiser]

i heared the new medal might be issued to serving members only this august

[hedgehog]

i heared the new medal might be issued to serving members only this august

Great to see and remember it honours those who went before- will the RDF be issued with it as well considering they are one part of the organisation.

[kaiser]

the lad that told me just said serving members in august so not sure hedgehog
none of us might get it we will see

[Connaught Stranger]

Seems in the immediate future the P.D.F. (Serving & Retired) are getting the green light to add a "21" Bar to their military service

medals, this will bring them in line with the R.D.F. serving and former members Service medals which sport the "21" bar.

Connaught Stranger

[DeV]

Seems in the immediate future the P.D.F. (Serving & Retired) are getting the green light to add a "21" Bar to their military service

medals, this will bring them in line with the R.D.F. serving and former members Service medals which sport the "21" bar.

Connaught Stranger

No where in line with RDF!

RDF medal in awarded after 7 years (bars awarded after 12 and 21 years)

PDF (other ranks) medal is awarded after 10 years (bar awarded after 15 years).
The medal is awarded to PDF officers after 15 years (bar after 20 years).

[Truck Driver]

i heared the new medal might be issued to serving members only this august

What new medal is this, Kaiser ?

[apod]

Didn't the Minister himself stand up in the dail here last year and answer a parliamentary question into weather we are getting a new medal with a categoric NO? I believe it was quoted here already.

[Connaught Stranger]

No where in line with RDF!

RDF medal in awarded after 7 years (bars awarded after 12 and 21 years)

PDF (other ranks) medal is awarded after 10 years (bar awarded after 15 years).
The medal is awarded to PDF officers after 15 years (bar after 20 years).

In line as in having a 21 year bar for the service medal.

[kaiser]

the bar for doing 21 is now in
im not sure what the minister said to be honest.. it would be nice to get one for the occasion.
TD its for the 100 years of irish volunteers

[DeV]

In line as in having a 21 year bar for the service medal.

But every other part of the award is different

[cooley]

No where in line with RDF!
PDF (other ranks) medal is awarded after 10 years (bar awarded after 15 years).
The medal is awarded to PDF officers after 15 years (bar after 20 years).

Does anyone know the actual reason as to why PDF officers have to do 15 years to get the service medal? Seems a bit inequitable.

I'm looking for actual reasons here and not conjecture folks.

[DeV]

Does anyone know the actual reason as to why PDF officers have to do 15 years to get the service medal? Seems a bit inequitable.

I'm looking for actual reasons here and not conjecture folks.

In the past a lot of officers would leave at captain/commandant rank, it is reward doing more than the basic (as opposed to doing the minimum.

[Battletour]

In fact the Service Medal was offered to all ranks by the DoD after WW2/Emergency. The DF declined to award it to officers as it was felt that service was something that officers
'should be doing anyway' and that they should not seek reward or be rewarded. It was rewarded to enlisted ranks as a 'thank you' for service rendered.

There was a change of attitude in the very late 80's and it was then felt that it would be more equitable if officers were also rewarded for their service. Why 15 years was the bottom
line is unclear to me. Probably because it was more service than enlisted men as more is demanded from officers.

[Truck Driver]

Didn't the Minister himself stand up in the dail here last year and answer a parliamentary question into weather we are getting a new medal with a categoric NO? I believe it was quoted here already.


the bar for doing 21 is now in
im not sure what the minister said to be honest.. it would be nice to get one for the occasion.
TD its for the 100 years of irish volunteers

Thanks Kaiser
But as Apod said above, there was a lot of debate about it, and by all accounts, the idea was sh1tcanned

[Connaught Stranger]

But every other part of the award is different

Again my reference was to the P.D.F. and qualifying P.D.F. veterans getting a "21" bar for their service medals,

I made no reference to:

(a) the design of the P.D.F. / F.C.A. / S.M. / R.D.F. Medals,
(b) the colour of the ribbons,
(c) the distinct years / criteria needed to get the said service medals respectively.

In line, appearance wise, as a serving P.D.F. soldier having a "21" year bar on his / her service medal, the same as a R.D.F. soldier currently having a "21" bar on his / her service medal ribbon.

In line, appearance wise, as a P.D.F. veteran having a "21" bar on his / her service medal, the same as a
F.C.A. / S.M. / R.D.F. veteran currently has on his / her service medal ribbon.

And it must be further noted for clarification, the "21" bar for the P.D.F. serving and veterans is identical to the current
"21" bar for the F.C.A. / S.M. / R.D.F.

Connaught Stranger.

[popeye]

And why should the bar be different reservists serve the same state.

[goc132]

Ther was a 25 year bar passed for FCA/SM but was never made or issued.

[DeV]

And why should the bar be different reservists serve the same state.

Pay & pension

[Connaught Stranger]

And why should the bar be different reservists serve the same state.

The design of the service medals is different though:tongue:

[goc132]

fca service medal better design though

[The real Jack]

And why should the bar be different reservists serve the same state.

Well effectively one would "serve" X Years and the other X Weeks.

[apod]

Well effectively one would "serve" X Years and the other X Weeks.

LMFAO:-D Oh no he didn't,Oh yes he did!

[fiannoglach]

fca service medal better design though

PDF Service medal actually means something though...

[Goldie fish]

PDF Service medal actually means something though...

You couldn't get a better job in civvy street?

;-)

[fiannoglach]

You couldn't get a better job in civvy street?

;-)

No, the judge wouldn't let me.

[DeV]

All we get not that grat is gone is a service medal!

I've now been waiting 3 years to get my 12 year bar and a friend of mine has been waiting 9 years to get his service medal!

It isn't much to ask and costs the State f all.

It isn't about the weeks, it is about the time committed.

[slapper]

most reserves have always been willing to give up our free time and go the extra bit when needed , bad weather, floods or any emergency but alot of the time never used . after the first few times i offered and was refused i never offered again but with floods in cork lads have gone up and said they will fill sandbags and were still told no
now what is the point in having a reserve if they are not used, hopefully things will change
is it alot for a reserve to want a medal which is entitled for personal pride more than any other reason

[apod]

You couldn't get a better job in civvy street?

;-)

Oddly enough some people WANT to be in the DF as a career.Not everybody joined because they couldn't get a civvi job!:tongue:

[DeV]

most reserves have always been willing to give up our free time and go the extra bit when needed , bad weather, floods or any emergency but alot of the time never used . after the first few times i offered and was refused i never offered again but with floods in cork lads have gone up and said they will fill sandbags and were still told no
now what is the point in having a reserve if they are not used, hopefully things will change
is it alot for a reserve to want a medal which is entitled for personal pride more than any other reason

Or that they went far above the eligibility criteria

[RoyalGreenJacket]

Oddly enough some people WANT to be in the DF as a career.Not everybody joined because they couldn't get a civvi job!:tongue:

these people make the best soldiers.

[Goldie fish]

Oddly enough some people WANT to be in the DF as a career.Not everybody joined because they couldn't get a civvi job!:tongue:

What about after you are 40... :)

[slapper]

Or that they went far above the eligibility criteria

what do you mean

[apod]

To be fair, they'd be in the minority!! :)

How the f**k would you know??When were you in the Army??:8(
I know some people who have better educations then some officers who are enlisted.When i joined the DF they were turning people away!And that was just as the celtic tiger got going.It is highly insulting to those who serve their country as PROFESSIONAL soldiers to suggest that they are only doing it because they were too shite for anything less.This isn't the '70's or early '80's when the DF were desperate to increase due to the "troubles".We don't take illiterates or Judges recommendations anymore!
(Not implying that all who joined up back then all fitted into either category but their was that element)

[slapper]

How the f**k would you know??When were you in the Army??:8(
I know some people who have better educations then some officers who are enlisted.When i joined the DF they were turning people away!And that was just as the celtic tiger got going.It is highly insulting to those who serve their country as PROFESSIONAL soldiers to suggest that they are only doing it because they were too shite for anything less.This isn't the '70's or early '80's when the DF were desperate to increase due to the "troubles".We don't take illiterates or Judges recommendations anymore!
(Not implying that all who joined up back then all fitted into either category but their was that element)

you got to admit there is some idiots in there as well

there is lads that were in the fca/rdf that i would trust with a spud gun and they are in the pdf now with big guns

[DeV]

what do you mean

You have to have have 7/12/21 years effective service, effective service previously requiring only 48 hours annually.

[slapper]

You have to have have 7/12/21 years effective service, effective service previously requiring only 48 hours annually.

ah ya i no wat you mean now

[kaiser]

you got to admit there is some idiots in there as well

there is lads that were in the fca/rdf that i would trust with a spud gun and they are in the pdf now with big guns

so you do trust them??
anyway the army does get some idiots but there usually found out and farmed of to some shit hole..
with the amount of lads in the df there has to be a few village idiots that slip through
i have met one or two guys over the yrs so thick, i taught the officer on the interview boared must of passed them to keep the o/r well below the ranks of the chaps in intelligence..

[slapper]

so you do trust them??
a intelligence..
no
i have to laugh anytime i hear anything about military intelligence its a contradiction in terms :-D

[kaiser]

no
i have to laugh anytime i hear anything about military intelligence its a contradiction in terms :-D

we are a single force now so were all idiots rdf aswell:tongue:

[Bravo20]

MOD: How the hell did a thread on medals get into a slagging match of the PDF. Everybody back to the topic or else face a ban. That includes moderators

[BANDIT]

I am agreeing with APOD on a number of post, what is happening?
Even in the 70s guys, ( no gals then) joined becuae they wanted to be soldiers. IOn the 70s there was even a real threat of the violence spilling across the border and bombs going odff in Dublin etc. After the UWC strike, bloody Sunday etc on one side and the activities of the IRA on the other hand there was a feeling taht the country was really under threat.
One should not under estimate , the patriotism of people. I remember my late father telling me that in 69 when he was called up as a first line reservist , he met guys who he had not seen since the emergency and who had paid there own fares back from the US, Canada etc and answered the call at that time..

[kaiser]

its saying on facebook there will be approx. 300 medals issued??
100 going to the most senior officers the rest shared out to retired senior officers
I don't know how true it is but the guy saying it is switched on so:rolleyes:
a total waste of time

[Buck]

its saying on facebook there will be approx. 300 medals issued??
100 going to the most senior officers the rest shared out to retired senior officers
I don't know how true it is but the guy saying it is switched on so:rolleyes:
a total waste of time

I saw that myself. The way I read it was that it was getting issued to the top brass and then the rest given out to other officers and some to retd. officers.

Either way it's a pile of shite.

[kaiser]

how can it be justified??
what a pile of shit is right..
I wonder were the info is coming from how can it be justified

[DeV]

Where on FB?

[Infy]

Irish defence forces members and ex members page

[Tyler Durden]

Is there a source for this other than Facebook? I saw this myself on Facebook and I really hope it's not true. It's utter banana republic shíte if it is - gongs for the Generalissimos :rolleyes:

[kaiser]

Is there a source for this other than Facebook? I saw this myself on Facebook and I really hope it's not true. It's utter banana republic shíte if it is - gongs for the Generalissimos :rolleyes:

I don't know of any other source or PG,s source
I think we will have to wait out
I don't mind not getting the medal I have enough but the top brass getting them??
for what always doing whats best for themselves and not making decisions that might affect there careers

[apod]

Lads i have posted this twice already.Their is NO 1913 medal going on issue.The miniuster himself said so during question time in the dail and our good friend kieran marum posted the same on here.Stop swallowing ballhops:mad:

[hedgehog]

I think it's a 1916 medal that is referred to on FB?

[Connaught Stranger]

The medal being referred to on the FB page is a Commemorative Medal for the 1916 Rising.

I was away yesterday from home so have not had time to check further postings on the page with regards this.

Will post any updates (if any.)

Original Post 1 comments contained the following:-
Well here goes you will be all delighted to hear that the 100 most senior officers of the Army will be presented with this medal in 2016 to commemorate the 1916 Easter Rising, and another 300 medals to be issued to officers, I may be out by 100 or so, but I'm led to believe that this is what is to be planned, sorry is planned. Maybe a few senior Ex Officer may be included in those figures. Isn't that just fcuk n nice of them to be so considerate, can't wait for the reactions,

EDIT! - Despite the claims, above, being made by the originator of the F.B. thread he has not posted any concrete source or link
despite being asked by several on the thread, so it might just be a sh*t stirring ball hop,
it has drawn the "Them & Us" Brigade out in full force with a lot of comments having zero connection to the subject in hand.

Connaught Stranger.

[B Inman]

With no link, its probably a wind up.

[goc132]

crap

[hedgehog]

crap

Is that an -Oh Crap

or a crap there is no medal?

[Tango_Charlie]

Ball-hop without a doubt!!! And potentially a good one as well. I'll be spreading this around the mess next week! heehee

[Fridge Magnet]

I heard we're all getting a medal for being alive.

[Tango_Charlie]

None for the CIS people then? Or are they just dead on the inside?

[Goldie fish]

I heard we're all getting a medal for being alive.

There's already a "survivors medal".

[The real Jack]

ONE seem to be spending a lot of time trying to get medals for serving during the troubles, the majority of people asking for them seem to be former FCA/RDF who did some full time service on or around the border.

Defence Forces Recognition 17. Deputy Derek Keating asked the Minister for Defence if he will consider awarding a service medal for the military personnel who served this country in a most professional, brave and dedicated manner during the period of Irish history known as The Troubles; if he will recognise publicly the many unsung heroes (details supplied); his views on whether such personnel, many of whom have retired, deserve to be honoured by this State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28741/13] Deputy Alan Shatter: There are currently two medals that mark the service of personnel with either the Permanent Defence Force or the Reserve Defence Force. The medal known as the "Service Medal” may be awarded to an officer, non-commissioned officer or private of the Permanent Defence Force or a member of the Army nursing or chaplaincy services who possesses the qualifying criteria for the award. In addition, in 1961, the "Service Medal - Reserve Defence Force” , formerly known as the "Service Medal FCA" and "An Slua Muirí" was introduced for members and former members of the Reserve who meet the qualifying criteria laid down. The awarding of either of these medals to qualifying personnel reflects the service given by those personnel to either the Permanent Defence Force or the Reserve Defence Force, as the case may be and, by extension, to the wider public, during the periods for which they served. While acknowledging the significant role of all Defence Forces personnel to the security of the State throughout the period of the Troubles, I am satisfied that these medals meet the need of marking service of personnel with either the Permanent Defence Force or the Reserve Defence Force and I have no plans to introduce additional medals. Deputy Derek Keating: I thank the Minister for his reply. I grew up on a daily diet of the Troubles on television, radio and in the print media. I welcome the move away from terrorism; away from the killing, mayhem and other illegal activities that took place over those unhappy decades. Such activities were carried out by a number of groups including the IRA and supporters of that organisation, including Sinn Féin, members of which have been elected to this House. I had hoped that the Minister would recognise a need to remember and distinguish those members of the Irish Defence Forces who throughout the 1970s, 1980s and even the 1990s, protected our Border, defused bombs, assisted the Garda with State security and carried out many other acts of bravery. The Minister will agree that the Irish Army is recognised throughout the world as a highly professional, brave and dedicated troupe of men and women who have served this country with great honour. During those troubled times, they provided the State with a service that warrants the term "hero". It is in that spirit that I tabled this question, to seek some recognition through a service medal.

[Bravo20]

Any chance you could change the font colour?

[The real Jack]

Any chance you could change the font colour?

Think it's changed now, I'm using the VB4 default style

[kaiser]

why don't we look for a medal for service in the laoise while were at it:-D

also were looking for a 1916 medal and a 100th anniversary of the irish volunteers
jesus some lads will be like idi amin with out leaving the country

[Connaught Stranger]

ONE seem to be spending a lot of time trying to get medals for serving during the troubles, the majority of people asking for them seem to be former FCA/RDF who did some full time service on or around the border.


ONE seem to be spending a lot of time trying to get medals for serving during the troubles, the majority of people asking for them seem to be former FCA/RDF who did some full time service on or around the border.

The number of members of the Old F.C.A. (prior to being renamed the R.D.F.) who would have served as full-time would be in the low hundreds.

How do you actually calculate that O.N.E. are working on behalf of a majority of F.C.A. bods? Is there a list of names published?

During my P.D.F. service with the 28th Bn in Finner Camp, between 1976 - 1997 the number of the Reserve Other Ranks on full-time duty was about 1 including those who came over to work in Finner when Manorhamilton Military Post Closed. Some of them subsequently, where age and health allowed underwent the "conversion course" from F.C.A. to P.D.F. keeping the ranks they had in the Reserve.

There are a couple of Facebook "Forums" with many P.D.F. ex-members who seem to think they are owed something for their service on the Border, during the "Troubles" possibly they have a just cause for some form of recognition be it a certificate, medal or a bar with the word border in Irish to add to the existing service medal.
However, in my honest opinion in these times of economic cutbacks and crisis its not the point in time to push for it, while many in the country are in dire straights.

No offense to current serving members of the P.D.F. and R.D.F. and not to trumpet my own horn, but, unless you actually did service on the border in that period, then you have little idea of the frequency of duties being undertaken, even more so during the periods when manpower levels had dropped to well below the recommended established strength of battalions, when many soldiers left the military for work in civie street and recruiting returns were very low.

Connaught Stranger.

[Bravo20]

There are worse things to award a medal for, and I don't think it would cost that much.

[kaiser]

i think a bar on the service medal would be a good idea like Connaught stranger said

[The real Jack]

The number of members of the Old F.C.A. (prior to being renamed the R.D.F.) who would have served as full-time would be in the low hundreds.

Where exactly did I state there was legions of these bods?


How do you actually calculate that O.N.E. are working on behalf of a majority of F.C.A. bods? Is there a list of names published?
Because the people who are spamming about it on my personal news feed are ONE members, many of which have various fantasy medals and are craving for another bit of medal to hang on their chest. The only people I see shiteing are former FCA. I cannot speak for former PDF doing the same.


No offense to current serving members of the P.D.F. and R.D.F. and not to trumpet my own horn, but, unless you actually did service on the border in that period, then you have little idea of the frequency of duties being undertaken, even more so during the periods when manpower levels had dropped to well below the recommended established strength of battalions, when many soldiers left the military for work in civie street and recruiting returns were very low.


http://i1.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/321/491/939.png

I didn't want to hear anecdotes about the border I just posted that PQ after seeing FCA heads going on about it.

[Connaught Stranger]

Where exactly did I state there was legions of these bods?


Because the people who are spamming about it on my personal news feed are ONE members, many of which have various fantasy medals and are craving for another bit of medal to hang on their chest. The only people I see shiteing are former FCA. I cannot speak for former PDF doing the same.



http://i1.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/321/491/939.png

I didn't want to hear anecdotes about the border I just posted that PQ after seeing FCA heads going on about it.

Well boo fvcking hoo sonny, I posted a comment containing FACT's as too the reason why both P.D.F. and F.C.A. (both serving or retired from that period are seeking some recognition.

Point 1: was a reference to a specific number, in reference to your "mainly F.C.A." comment.

Point 2: I was very much there during that period were you in any capacity P.D.F. or F.C.A.?

Point 3: If some people feel they have a just cause, with regards this matter be they F.C.A. / R.D.F. / P.D.F.

so be it
Democracy at work.

Connaught Stranger.

[The real Jack]

Well boo fvcking hoo sonny, I posted a comment containing FACT's as too the reason why both P.D.F. and F.C.A. (both serving or retired from that period are seeking some recognition.

And I haven't posted facts? I posted the fact that FCA ONE members are shiteing on about getting a medal. Is this not true? Is it not true that former full time FCA don't have any overseas medals so they want more medals to feel less insecure at ONE meetings?


Point 1: was a reference to a specific number, in reference to your "mainly F.C.A." comment.

spe·cif·ic /spə'sifik/ Adjective Clearly defined or identified


Point 2: I was very much there during that period

I don't care, this has nothing to do with me posting a parliamentary question.


were you in any capacity P.D.F. or F.C.A.?

At what point did I mention any personal experience of operations on the border? What relevance does this have to me posting a PQ?