Christmas messages from Offaly soldiers in Lebanon

More than 20 Offaly soldiers departed last month for a six-month mission serving as peacekeepers with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

The soldiers are attached to the 127th Infantry Battalion, the lead unit of which is drawn from Athlone's Custume Barracks.

We received these Christmas messages from two of the Offaly soldiers currently serving in Lebanon.

* FS Denise English:

"I am Flight Sergeant Denise, from Edenderry. I have a lot of people back home that I’d love to wish a Merry Christmas to but I’ll have to narrow it down to the children on Santa’s nice list – Charlotte, Cooper, Callum, Donacha, Zahra, Sienna, Freya and Amelia, with a special wish for happiness to my Da, Paddy, and my fiancé, Eddie.

"I’m hoping that for Christmas there will be some sort of battalion activity followed by a nice dinner (thanks Locky) but most importantly, starting the day off with a call to see who got what off Santy.

"I’m very fortunate to be in the company of the great people of the 127 Infantry Battalion, but I miss my family and friends. I hope they all have an amazing Christmas and new year. Wishing everyone here in Lebanon a happy and safe time too."

* Cpl Adam Delaney

"My name is Cpl Adam Delaney, and I’m from Rahan, County Offaly. I’d like to say hello to my family back home, and my girlfriend Amie. On Christmas Day, my brother and I will be calling home to our family."