Editorial: Lasting legacy of saving lives
David Carroll at the memorial at the RNLI HQ in Dorset, UK, where he first came across the names of John Fitzgerald and Thomas Crotty. Photo: Brendan Dunne
The heroic actions of a group of fishermen over 150 years ago would set in motion a series of events that would provide a lasting legacy in Waterford of saving lives and protecting those who risk their lives to do so.
John Fitzgerald and Thomas Crotty were lost at sea in January 1858 when they, as part of a group of six men, set out from Brownstown to rescue seven French sailors who had been shipwrecked aboard the French brig, La Capricieuse, in Tramore Bay.
The tragedy caused not only an outpouring of grief in the local area, but a groundswell of support for the establishment of a dedicated RNLI lifeboat service in Waterford.
Both John Fitzgerald and Thomas Crotty, who are already remembered across the water in Dorset, in the UK – where their names are inscribed on a memorial at the RNLI College there – will now be remembered for their bravery much closer to home on the Lost at Sea Memorial in Dunmore East.
It is fitting that not only is their act of heroism all those years ago finally marked much closer to home, but that we can take this opportunity to reflect upon the wonderful contribution the RNLI has provided to Waterford communities across all the decades since.
The volunteerism at the heart of the RNLI is phenomenal. Their bravery, often in the face of extremely difficult conditions at sea, has saved countless lives – both of Waterfordians and visitors to our shores and seas.
The immediate response to the appeal for an RNLI station back in 1858 meant a station was officially founded a year later. The commitment of those who volunteer their services has not abated since.
Remembering the heroes Fitzgerald and Crotty is, as David Carroll, author of ‘Dauntless Courage’ (a book about the history of Dunmore East RNLI), says, about reminding people that those who carry out selfless acts of heroism to help others will always be remembered. To them, and to all who have given their services to the RNLI, Waterford is truly indebted.
The Garda Youth Awards took place in Waterford last Friday, providing an opportunity to reflect on the amazing contributions of our young people, in making our communities better, safer places in which to live.
The overall winner was Waterpark student Ava Walsh for her work in helping young people overcome grief. Ava was inspired to help others after the tragic passing of her father Stuart when she was only 13 years old.
The stories, such as Ava’s, are inspirational. Others included campaigns to improve road safety, sea rescues, a young boy’s commitment to looking after a vulnerable neighbour… these are but a few examples of the wonderful achievements of these Waterford young people. Well done to the winners and to all who entered, and who work so hard to provide a positive contribution in our communities.
