The tragic crew of the Rescue 111 helicopter have been remembered with poignant ceremonies on the 20th anniversary of their deaths.
Captain Dave O’Flaherty, Captain Mick Baker, Sergeant Paddy Mooney and Corporal Niall Byrne all perished when their helicopter crashed in dense fog in Waterford on July 2, 1999.
They had been carrying out a search and rescue mission for a missing boat at the time.
The brave crew managed to locate the boat and directed a lifeboat to its location.
Tragically, on their return, the weather had deteriorated significantly and while attempting an approach to Tramore Beach they collided with a sand dune.
Family, friends and colleagues gathered at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnell and the crash site in Tramore to commemorate the four men.
Tribute was paid to their service and the sacrifice they made to the State and people of Ireland.
A military guard of honour and ceremonial 'missing man' flypast was conducted by the Air Corps.
