Double award for Wicklow RNLI as Des and Dave recognised for dedication
Two members of Wicklow Lifeboat Station have received awards from the RNLI, in recognition of their dedication and service over the years.
Deputy Second Coxswain Dave O’ Leary has been awarded the crewman’s Long Service Badge for meritorious service to the RNLI.
Dave joined the volunteer crew in May 1996 and was appointed an inshore lifeboat helm in 2002. He was put on the Coxswains plan in 2007 and became a Deputy Second Coxswain in 2008, the year his sister Lisa became third Mechanic. In 2010, Dave took over and overhauled the Inshore Lifeboat crew training plan; he is now an integral part of the station personnel.
Lifeboat Operations Manager Des Davitt was awarded Inscribed Binoculars for his service to the RNLI. Des joined the RNLI Wicklow committee in 1993. He became vice chairman in 1995 and took charge of all fundraising for the branch with support from the Ladies Guild. Des was chairman of the appeal committee who raised funds for the provision of a new Inshore Lifeboat and an extension to the boathouse to house the new lifeboat in 1996.
In 2001, he was awarded the bronze badge for his services to fundraising.
In 2004, he took over the new position of Lifeboat Operations Manager, formerly Honorary Secretary, from the retiring Kevin Desmond.
Fundraising then became separate from Operations and Phylis Whyte took over the running of all fundraising activities. As Lifeboat Operations Manager, Des is responsible for all operational activities at the Station and authorises the launch of the boat when a launch request is received from the Coast Guard.
Ends
Notes to Editors
Please find attached a photo of the two award recipients (left to right) Deputy Second Coxswain Dave O’ Leary and Lifeboat Operations Manager Des Davitt . Credit Wicklow RNLI.
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