Rescue 111 20th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony
On this day 20 years ago, four Air Corps aircrew lost their lives when their Dauphin Helicopter, callsign ‘Rescue 111’, crashed in dense fog at Tramore beach, County Waterford. Captain Dave O’Flaherty, Captain Mick Baker, Sergeant Paddy Mooney and Corporal Niall Byrne made the ultimate sacrifice when carrying out a search and rescue mission.
Today their family, friends and colleagues gathered at their home-base in Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnell and the crash site in Tramore to commemorate the four aircrew. Tribute was paid to their service and the sacrifice they made to the State and people of Ireland. A military guard of honour and ceremonial 'missing man' flypast was conducted by the Air Corps.
The accident occurred when Rescue 111 set course for Waterford Airport after successfully locating a missing boat and directing Helvick Lifeboat to its location. The weather had deteriorated significantly and while attempting an approach to Tramore Beach they collided with a sand dune.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Press Release Date: Tuesday 2nd July 2019
For Further Information contact:
Press Officer: Comdt. James O'Hara
Tel: 045 49 2502 , 045 49 2503
Mobile : 087 2482130
E-mail: Press Officer
