By Dan Walsh
Fethard RNLI has honoured its volunteers, past and present, when they assembled in the lifeboat station recently to celebrate 30 years since the reopening of the station.
The event provided an opportunity to recognise three decades of lifesaving service by Fethard RNLI volunteers and to thank the many people who have supported the station since it reopened in 1996.
Visitors enjoyed tours of the station and lifeboat, meeting crew members and learning more about the RNLI. The day also offered an opportunity to reflect on the station’s history and the dedication of the volunteers who have answered the call whenever their pagers have sounded over the past 30 years.
A highlight of the day was the presentation of RNLI 30 Year Long Service Awards to five dedicated volunteers whose commitment has helped shape the station since its reopening. Walter Foley, Launch Authority and former Lifeboat Operations Manager; Peter Barry, Launch Authority and former crew member; Dr John Cox, Chairperson and former Lifeboat Medical Advisor; John Colfer, Helm; and Jamie Chapman, Helm, were all recognised for their 30 years of service to Fethard RNLI.
Earlier this year, Walter Foley and Dr John Cox joined fellow RNLI volunteers from around Ireland at a special RNLI Volunteer Recognition Event held at Clontarf Castle, where they were formally presented with their medals in recognition of three decades of dedication to the charity.
The anniversary celebrations at Fethard RNLI provided an opportunity for fellow volunteers, family members and supporters to acknowledge their achievements alongside those of the other long-serving award recipients.
Speaking at the event, Fethard RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Domini Codd said: “Today was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate 30 years of service and to thank the local community for the incredible support they have shown Fethard RNLI since the station reopened.
“I would also like to remind everyone that if they see someone in difficulty on the coast, or if they get into trouble themselves in, on or near the water, to call 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
