By PRO IUNVA
TRAMORE CRASH 2 JUL 1999
Today on the twenty fifth anniversary of their deaths we remember Capt Dave O’Flaherty (30), Capt Mick Baker (28), Sgt Pat Mooney (34) and Cpl Niall Byrne (25) who lost their lives Dauphin DH248 helicopter, Rescue 111 crashed at Tramore Co Waterford. At 2202, the crew was tasked by the Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre at Rosslare to locate a pleasure craft the Realt Or from Dungarvan Harbour who were stuck in fog and were unable to navigate. At 2300 the lifeboat from Helvick lifeboat located the vessel and was starting to tow it to Helvick Pier. R111 was informed and gave overhead cover for the operation. The helicopter was stood down and informed of worsening fog conditions at Waterford Airport. After midnight, R 111 crashed into the sand dunes behind Tramore Beach killing all on board.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh siad uile
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