Lough Swilly RNLI Volunteers Honoured for Remarkable 120 Years of Combined Service
- Mary Kate Byrne
- Jun 8
- 3 min read
Monday 8 June 2026
Five dedicated volunteers from Lough Swilly RNLI have been recognised for a combined 120 years of service to the lifesaving charity at a special awards ceremony held in Belfast.
The volunteers were honoured at an event hosted in the historic Harbour Commissioners Office on Friday, 5 June, where RNLI Long Service Awards were presented to recognise their exceptional commitment and dedication to saving lives at sea.
This year, Lough Swilly RNLI Lifeboat Station celebrated five longstanding volunteers who have together contributed more than a century of service across a wide range of operational and leadership roles.
Among those recognised was Amy McCarter-Phillips, who marked 20 years of service. Throughout her time with the RNLI, Amy has served as a crew member on the station’s D class and Atlantic inshore lifeboats, as well as on the all-weather lifeboat. She currently serves as the station’s Lifeboat Training Co-ordinator.
Eamonn Mahon received recognition for 30 years of service. Over three decades, he has held key operational roles including helm on both the D class and Atlantic lifeboats, Coxswain and navigator on the all-weather lifeboat, and casualty care provider. Eamonn has also represented the RNLI beyond Lough Swilly as a member of the charity’s Rapid Response and Flood Rescue teams.
Also celebrating 30 years of service was Gregory McDaid, whose RNLI career has seen him serve as a D class and Atlantic helm, Coxswain, second mechanic and later full-time mechanic on the all-weather lifeboat. Gregory also contributed his expertise as part of the RNLI Flood Rescue team.
Joe Joyce marked 20 years with the charity, having served as both an Atlantic and all-weather lifeboat crew member. In addition to his operational duties, he has fulfilled several key shore-based roles including Lifeboat Training Co-ordinator, Lifeboat Press Officer, Launch Authority and Lifeboat Operations Manager.
Completing the list of award recipients was William Monaghan, who also celebrated 20 years of service. William has undertaken a variety of roles including Atlantic and all-weather lifeboat mechanic, tractor driver and mechanic, and Head Launcher.
Paying tribute to the award recipients, Lough Swilly RNLI Station President Liam Magee praised the volunteers for their longstanding commitment and the breadth of their contribution to the station and wider RNLI family.
“The number and varied roles each volunteer has taken on and contributed to over their many years of service to the RNLI highlights their selfless dedication and willingness to save lives at sea,” he said.
“They are all highly skilled and trained and have delivered so much over the years, not least in seeing Lough Swilly RNLI transition from an inshore to an all-weather lifeboat station".
“In addition, several crew members have supported the RNLI’s initiatives through the Rapid Response and Flood Rescue teams, providing service beyond Lough Swilly, all while representing the charity in a professional, respectful and loyal way.”
Mr Magee also acknowledged the support provided by volunteers’ families, whose role is often overlooked but remains vital to the RNLI’s lifesaving mission.
“Behind every RNLI volunteer there’s a family who have a central role in supporting our lifesaving volunteers, and that’s something to be really proud of and acknowledge at events like these,” he added.
The awards highlight the extraordinary commitment of RNLI volunteers whose combined experience, skills and dedication continue to play a crucial role in keeping coastal communities and mariners safe around Ireland’s shores.
