Today marks the 16th anniversary of the tragic crash of the Irish Air Corps Rescue Helicopter 111 in the sand dunes of Tramore Beach, Co. Waterford in 1999.
As I walked down the Promenade here in Tramore early this morning, my thoughts were with the families, friends and colleagues of the four crew members who were killed on that dark, dark day in Irish aviation history.
The four brave men who died on their way home from a rescue mission in dense fog were:
Sgt. Patrick Mooney, Stamullen, Co. Meath ~ aged 34
Capt. Dave O’ Flaherty, Tullamore, Co. Offaly ~ aged 30
Capt. Michael Baker, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford ~ aged 28
Cpl. Niall Byrne, Killiney, Co. Dublin ~ aged 25
These men will never, ever be forgotten by the people of Tramore and there is intense goodwill and love for the Rescue Helicopter and its crews, based at Waterford Airport, which serve us all with such heart, altruism and skill.
But, today, let us remember, and give thanks to, those four young men who paid the ultimate price in the service of others.
SOCIAL BRIDGE ~ Jean Tubridy connecting with you from Ireland 
God rest their souls may their families find solace in the fact that they died helping others
Willow, many thanks for writing. I think you’ll see how well these men are remembered from Rory’s comment below.
Willow, They did indeed helped others. They were all great men and true heroes of Ireland. May they always be remembered. Captain David O’Flaherty was my best friend and will always be. Rory
Hi Rory, thanks for such a powerful message. The bonds of your friendship with David will clearly remain forever.
Our heartfelt sympathy to their friends and families.
Thanks so much for writing, Olga.
I pray for them, for their good souls and brave hearts…
Many thanks for writing, Lily
My prayers are with them. Thank you for the beautiful tribute Jean.
Hi Paul, really appreciate your comment.
This is a lovely tribute to a horrible tragedy, Jean. They were all much too young to lose their lives but as you said, they will never be forgotten and I hold their family and friends in prayers.
Thanks for your kindness, Lauren.
Strength to the family/loved ones, as the bravery of these men lives on in spirit… 😦 ♥ ❤