Sir, - It was with great sadness that I heard of the death of the four Air Corps helicopter crew members. The families of these men have our deepest sympathy.
I have on many occasions during my career as an anaesthetist travelled with critically ill patients on Air Corps helicopters with crew members like those killed the other day, and to my recollection with at least one of the actual men who lost their lives. Indeed one was from this very town - Tullamore.
The patients with whom I travelled, along with so many other people, owe their lives to these men who have died, and their colleagues. I have been deeply impressed and moved by the professionalism, efficiency and sheer good humour of the Air Corps crews in what are very difficult and stressful situations. It was a pleasure to fly with such people and I always knew that my patient, my nurse, and I myself, were in the safest hands.
Any one of us could at a moment's notice have need of the Air Corps. I know that I speak for my colleagues in the medical profession when I thank the Air Corps for the superb service that these men provided and which others will go on to provide. It is indeed tragic that such generosity of spirit and dedication to the safety of others has led to their own deaths.
Their families should obtain solace in the knowledge that their loved ones did so much good - and did it so well. - Yours, etc.,
Dr Peter Dunkin, FFARCSI, Consultant anaesthetist, General Hospital, Tullamore, Co Offaly.