Wicklow RNLI volunteers began the new year with a remembrance ceremony honouring lives lost, followed by long service award presentations.
Both Wicklow RNLI lifeboats launched on New Year’s Day for a wreath-laying ceremony off the east pier.
Prayers were led by Fr Aquinas Duffy and Rev Jack Kinkead, joined by RNLI members and bereaved families.
Wreaths were transferred from the all-weather lifeboat to the inshore lifeboat and laid on the water after the service.
A special wreath was dedicated to former Duty Launch Authority Tom Byrne, who died recently. His family attended the ceremony.
Lifeboat Operations Manager Joe Healy said: “It is important that we remember those that have gone before us.”
He added: “We were heartened to see such a large crowd gather today, especially thinking of Tom, who served the RNLI and the wider maritime community for many years.”
The ceremony was followed by the presentation of long service awards to volunteers Ciaran Doyle and Mark Kavanagh.
Mr Doyle received a 40-year service award, having joined Wicklow RNLI in 1984.
Ciaran Doyle receives his award from Tommy McAuley accompanied by Joe Healy
During his service, he held roles including crew member, emergency mechanic, emergency coxswain and second coxswain.
He later became coxswain, with responsibility for all-weather lifeboat operations at sea.
Mr Doyle also serves as a full-time relief coxswain afloat mechanic, providing cover at RNLI stations nationwide.
Mr Kavanagh received a 20-year service award after joining the RNLI in 2005.
He is a helm on the inshore lifeboat and a navigator on the all-weather lifeboat.
Mark Kavanagh receives his award from Joe Healy accompanied by Tommy McAuley
Wicklow RNLI coxswain Tommy McAuley said: “These awards are a testament to dedication and commitment.”
He added: “None of this would be possible without the support of families, who sacrifice so much to allow us to save lives at sea.”
The day also marked personal celebrations, with congratulations extended to crew members Ian Heffernan and Cian Kelly on their recent engagements.
Cian Kelly (left) with his partner Nicola & Ian Heffernan (right) with his partner Emma
Lifeboat Press Officer Connie O’Gara said the events were important for the station and crew.
“These occasions bring everyone together outside of training and search and rescue operations,” she said.
