Date confirmed for awarding of military honour for Ballyhaunis native Billy Kedian

A Mayo soldier killed while defending a UN outpost from Hezbollah militants will be posthumously honoured for his bravery next month at a ceremony in Renmore, Co Galway.

Private Billy Kedian will be honoured by Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris, TD, for the bravery he displayed while serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on May 31, 1999.

Showing total disregard for his own life, the Ballyhaunis native alerted the other off-duty troops and ensured they made their way to their bunkers after their post came under attack in the early hours of the morning. Pte Kedian, who was off-duty at the time, was killed by an 81-millimetre mortar during the attack. He was 21 years old.

A long-running campaign for his actions to be formally honoured by the Irish military concluded with the announcement that he would be awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, which is awarded to individuals who demonstrate exceptional bravery and selflessness in service to their country.

A commemorative plaque in his memory was erected and officially opened near his homeplace outside Ballyhaunis last year. Hundreds of people attended the unveiling ceremony, including the family of Billy Kedian, retired Irish Defence Forces personnel, local representatives and Minister Jennifer Carroll-McNeill TD.

“The decision to bestow this honour follows years of tireless campaigning, and it is with great pride that we now see Private Kedian’s exceptional bravery officially recognised by the Defence Forces,” said Séamus Gannon, a member of the committee who campaigned for Pte Kedian to be honoured for his bravery.

“His actions reflect the highest standards of military service, and this recognition serves as a celebration of his invaluable contribution to the Irish Defence Forces.

“We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to former TD Cathal Berry and Senator Gerard Craughwell, whose unwavering dedication and support were pivotal in securing this award. Their tireless efforts, including facilitating key meetings with government ministers and the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, were instrumental in ensuring that Private Kedian’s courage was formally acknowledged.”

The award ceremony for Pte Billy Kedian will take place on March 8, at Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Renmore, Co Galway.