Amazing acts of courage during a sea rescue last summer, when five local siblings got into difficulty, have been formally recognised.
At a special ceremony last week, Ballee sea swimmers and friends Veronica Sloan and Sinéad Deane were awarded Honorary Testimonials from the Royal Humane Society for their crucial role in averting what could have been a tragic incident.
The siblings rescued were Catherine, Cecilia, Mary, Maria, and Francis Smyth from Ballynoe. In addition, 14-year-old Mary received an Honorary Testimonial for her bravery in keeping her sister Catherine, who could not swim, afloat during the ordeal.
The trio also received certificates of recognition from the Coastguard and the Royal Lifesaving Society, along with a special letter from Irish President Catherine Connolly.
The rescue took place on 13 July last year at Rossglass. While the tide was initially out, it began turning as the children, enjoying an evening on the beach with their mother Gemma, went for a cooling dip. What onlookers assumed were playful shouts were actually desperate cries for help.
Veronica and Sinéad acted immediately. Wading into the water, they first reached Francis, Maria, and Cecilia, sending them safely back to their mother. Veronica, carrying her phone in a waterproof bag, called 999 from waist-deep in the sea, triggering a rescue operation. Meanwhile, Sinéad swam out to Mary and Catherine, who were treading water, and helped keep them safe.
The bravery and quick thinking of Veronica, Sinéad, and Mary were widely praised during Thursday’s ceremony, with senior Coastguard personnel and other guests highlighting their life-saving actions.
