Madam, – As an ex-soldier I was profoundly saddened at the untimely death this week of former Defence Forces Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Dermot Earley. Dermot was an exemplary soldier and sportsman who passed his military and athletic prowess unto his children.
Part of his legacy was the establishment of the Army Ranger Wing (ARW) which is now placed among the elite of international special forces units. He, along with Captain Heaslip (who has distinguished himself as a UN commander and whose son Jamie is one of Ireland’s best rugby players) transformed the ARW into the best of the best. I corresponded with Dermot last year and his innate courtesy and professionalism in these letters was testament to his character.
I offer my condolences to his wife and family. This old soldier will not fade away, his spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts of the enlisted soldiers of the Defence Forces. May you rest in peace comrade. – Yours, etc,