Byrne Pays Tribute to Emergency Heroes

Argentinean National among those honoured

Dublin Castle, Sunday, 24 February 2002
Mr. Hugh Byrne, T.D., Minister of State at the Department of the Marine and Natural Resources today presented, on behalf of the Government, medals and certificates to Merchant Seamen who served on board Irish vessels, and to relatives of crewmen who served or who lost their lives, during World War II.

The Minister said “these men are not only true patriots but also heroes.  These are men born a breed apart and it is vital that their role, and more importantly the manner in which they served their country never be forgotten, however long ago it may be”.

The Minister presented 24 awards at the ceremony, 6 of the seamen honoured were present to receive their awards, with the remainder presented to the next of kin of those who had lost their lives in service or who have subsequently passed away.

The presentation was also attended by His Excellency, Victor E. Beauge, Argentinean Ambassador to Ireland. The Ambassador attended to mark the presentation of a medal for Mr. Patricio McCarthy who lost his life when the Irish registered steam trawler, “Leukos” in 1940.   Mr. McCarthy is the only Argentinean National to have been lost on an Irish registered vessel during the Emergency.  Maritime historians estimate that some 156 seafarers lost their lives during the War years keeping the shipping lines open.

Minister Byrne said, "I am anxious that other crewmen who served during these years, or their families, should come forward to claim any honours due.  My Department's Mercantile Marine offices in Dublin and Cork will assist claimants in whatever way possible".

The Minister concluded “At the best of times a seafarer’s occupation can be hazardous, since they are so often exposed to treacherous conditions at sea.  When this task is further complicated by the perils of war we can begin to realise the extent of the bravery of the people who served on board Irish vessels at that time.”

ENDS.

Note for Information:
The post war Government decided that a Medal with a ribbon should be awarded to seamen who served for a period of at least six months in Irish ships during the period 3 September, 1939 to 31 March 1946. In addition a service bar would be given for each two years service over and above the period of 6 months and that a certificate should be granted to each person entitled to a medal and to any other person whose services did not extend to the minimum period necessary to qualify for a medal.  A tunic ribbon is also issued to each seamen entitled to a medal.