Readers like you keep news free for everyone.
More than 5,000 readers have already pitched in to keep free access to The Journal.
For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can help keep paywalls away.
# Missing You
'I will be home soon, son': Irish soldiers stationed abroad mark Father's Day
Members of the Defence Forces who are serving in Syria, Lebanon and Mali have sent messages home to their families.
IRISH SOLDIERS SERVING in Syria, Lebanon and Mali have sent messages home to wish their families a happy Father’s Day.
The soldiers are from several counties, including Kilkenny, Waterford, Kildare, Dublin, Galway and Cork.
Some of the messages are below and all can be viewed here.
Sgt Brian Reid
From Newbridge, Co Kildare; based in Syria.
I would like to wish my two beautiful daughters, Nicole and Ashley, a happy Father’s Day. Can’t wait to see ye, miss you and love you lots. And my dad, a happy Father’s Day to you. See you all when I’m home!
Lt Martin Griffin
From Tramore, Co Waterford; stationed in Syria.
To my three children Philip, Clara and Ceri and my wife Maria. Sorry I can’t be home this Father’s Day. See you all when I’m home on leave. Lots of love, Martin.
BQ Brian Cronin
From Ratoath, Co Meath; stationed in Lebanon.
To my kids Jessica, seven, and Gracie, four. Happy fifth birthday to Gracie coming soon. Dada missing you both and hope you are looking after Ruffie & Mammy. Love, Dad.
Sgt Declan Higgins
From Fermoy, Co Cork; stationed in Syria.
To my son, Bobby: Sorry I can’t be there for you on Father’s day. I will be home soon, son. Miss you heaps. Lots of love, Daddy.
Comdt Robert Kiely
From Mountrath, Co Laois, stationed in Syria.
All my love to my beautiful daughters Emma and Rachael and to my wonderful wife, Amanda. Looking forward to coming home soon on leave. Love, Dad
Pte Gavin Lyons
From Kildare town; stationed in Syria.
To Kissandra and baby Kiarrai. Thinking of you both this Father’s Day, sorry I can’t be with you both. See you all soon. Lots of love, Gavin.
Cpl Brian Doherty
From Blanchardstown, Co Dublin; stationed in Lebanon.
All my love to my children Amy, eleven, and Brandon, three. Love, Dad
Lt Gerry Reynolds
From Tuam, Co Galway; stationed in Mali.
Message to my sons: Derec, Gearoid and Fionan: Hi guys, I am looking forward to seeing you soon when I get home on R & R and thanks for the Father’s Day cards.
Pictures: Irish Defence Forces personnel vote in Election 2014 … from Mali
Read: Hundreds of Irish soldiers were exposed to asbestos while serving overseas
Read: ‘Forced to avail of the Dole’: 120 Navy and Army personnel to be made redundant
