A memorial to the four Air Corps men killed in a search-and-rescue operation a year ago was erected yesterday in Tramore, Co Waterford. The stainless steel sculpture, the work of Waterford-based artist John O'Connor, was commissioned by a committee set up to examine ways of honouring the men.
The four - Capt Dave O'Flaherty (30), from Tullamore, Co Offaly; Capt Mick Baker (28), Enniscorthy, Co Wexford; Sgt Paddy Mooney (34), Stamullen, Co Meath; and Corporal Niall Byrne (24), Killiney, Co Dublin - died when their Dauphin helicopter struck a sand dune near Tramore beach.
Tomorrow is the first anniversary of the accident, the worst in the history of the Air Corps. A joint Air Corps-Department of Public Enterprise investigation team has completed a draft report, but the final document is not expected for several months.
The sculpture will be formally unveiled by the President, Mrs McAleese, on September 4th. Mr O'Connor said the design was based on the technical elements of the helicopter, which crashed nearby.
It includes four rotors, similar in size but slightly different to reflect the individuality of each crew member, which would rotate in the wind "reflecting the idea that the memory of these brave men will live on," he said. Four fibre optic lights would shine from the structure at night. The lighting element is expected to be operational by the end of next week.
Tomorrow's air show at Salthill, Co Galway, is being dedicated to the memory of the four men, and a prayer service will take place on July 9th at 3 p.m. in Stamullen, Co Meath, to honour the crew members.
