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Ranger Danny Stewart
A LISBURN soldier's selfless act of bravery
which undoubtedly saved the lives of a number of his comrades in
Afghanistan was honoured recently when he received a special
military commendation to mark his courage.
Ranger Danny Stewart of the First Battalion
the Royal Irish Regiment earned the honour when he was a member
of one of two groups of soldiers who came under heavy and
sustained attack in the war ravaged country.
The troops faced an onslaught of gunfire,
grenades and RPG rockets from more than 40 assailants.
During the engagement which lasted two hours
Ranger Stewart noticed several soldiers pinned down behind an
open vehicle.
He immediately moved his own vehicle into a
position which provided these soldiers with cover and enabled
them to take action to protect themselves.
The commendation was presented on November 20 at
Fort George near Inverness by Brigadier Ed Butler. It came as
quite a surprise to Ranger Stewart who knew nothing of the
honour until a medal parade was held at the military base.
"It was a complete surprise but I am very happy to have been
presented with it," he added.
" At the time I really just acted out of
instinct."
The commendation is not the first military honour received by
a member of the Stewart family.
Ranger Stewart's brother, an RIR Colour
Sergeant was mentioned in dispatches following exemplary conduct
in Bosnia.
Ulster Star
08/12/2006
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