Four former soldiers from Westmeath are to make representations to the Minister for Defence, Mr Smith, for formal recognition of the sacrifices made by those who survived a six-day siege and imprisonment while on UN duty in the Congo.
The men are aggrieved that on the 40th anniversary of the infamous battle of Jadotville, they have not received a medal or even a certificate in recognition of their efforts.
The four are Sgt Bill Ready (60), Gunner Tom Cunningham (62) and gunner John Flynn (58) from Mullingar, and Sgt Bobby Allen (73), from Collinstown. During the 1961 battle, they survived aerial bombardment and heavy artillery fire for six days and nights. They were forced to surrender after their water, food and ammunition ran out.
The four described the lack of official recognition as "disgraceful". Sgt Ready, who was shot in the attack, said: "We have been forgotten about by the Army, the Minister and the system."
They are particularly aggrieved that their company commander, the late Lieut Col Pat Quinlan, had not been recognised either. "He saved our lives, but he was treated very badly. Even at this late stage, even though he has passed away, he should still be acknowledged," Sgt Ready said.
The veterans' campaign for official recognition has been backed by local senator Mr Donie Cassidy, who said he would raise the matter with Mr Smith.
However, the anniversary of the battle has been marked by the UN Veterans' Association and the Mullingar-based veterans group, Post 20, which presented them with a plaque and tankard.
The UN Veterans' Association has also commissioned a special medal, designed by Mullingar man and Post 20 development officer, Mr Eddie Robinson, which it hopes will be presented to all UN peacekeeping veterans, including members of the Defence Forces, the Garda S∅ochβna and civilian personnel.
Mr Robinson said it was disgraceful that the veterans were being honoured locally but not by the Department of Defence. "They put their lives on the line and didn't get any recognition, not a medal, not even a certificate."
He also said the contribution by Lieut Col Quinlan was not properly rewarded by the Army. "He finished up as a lieutenant colonel, but he should have been promoted to a higher rank in recognition of his actions and gallantry. He saved the whole company. He was never above anybody. He was a great man."