The Killybegs Coast Guard Team has a long and proud tradition of service to their community, and on Wednesday evening, they took time to remember and celebrate that history.
Every member of the team was presented with a special commemorative coin, marking the 200th anniversary of the Coast Guard from 1822 to 2022.
Coastguard Wreck Tokens were withdrawn from service in 1972. The tradition goes back to days when volunteer coastguard members were rewarded for their service assisting vessels and saving lives at sea.
The ‘wreck token’ was issued by the officer in charge on the completion of the operation.
According to Capt. Brian Smith of the Coast Life Saving Service Association, these tokens could, in turn, be exchanged for the appropriate payment for the service rendered.
At the formation of the Irish Free State, these tokens were changed to display the Irish Harp.
Photo: Killybegs Coast Guard
The presentation on Wednesday was a brilliant evening, said a spokesperson from Killybegs Coast Guard
“The coins were presented by CGU&S Manager Niall Ferns and Officer in charge Shane Mc Crudden, and we thank Niall very much for calling to the team.”
The awards didn’t stop there. Eunan Kee and Michelle Bennett, were presented with their 10 year long service medals.
“We as a team are so happy for Eunan & Michelle,” the spokesperson said.
“To help anyone once is a brilliant gesture, but to do it for 10 years and continue to do so, is just simply unbelievable and we all salute Eunan and Michelle for that.”
Michelle Bennett presented with her 10 year long service medal. Photo: Killybegs Coast Guard
Eunan Kee presented with his 10 year long service medal. Photo: Killybegs Coast Guard
