Irish Lights Marks 81st Anniversary of the sinking of Isolda

And pays tribute to those who lost their lives at sea

The 19th December marks the 81st anniversary of the sinking of Isolda, a service vessel owned by the Commissioners of Irish Lights (Irish Lights). On this day in 1940, Isolda sailed from Rosslare with a relief crew on board for the Barrels and Conninbeg lightships. Irish Lights, operating the lighthouse service, was considered neutral during World War II.  A German aircraft attacked the vessel despite it being clearly marked ‘Lighthouse Service’. The Isolda was carrying buoys, which may have been mistaken for mines. It is reported that the aircraft circled three times over Isolda, and on the last pass released bombs, which hit the ship starting a fire. The survivors landed at Kilmore Quay in their own lifeboats. There were twenty eight crew on board, including the master, Captain Alan Bestic. Six men were killed and seven wounded.

Below is a video that was created for the 80th year commemoration to honour the lives lost. 

Those who lost their lives are honoured and acknowledged for their loyal and dedicated service:

P. Dunne; Coxwain, Dun Laoghaire, aged 45.

P. Farrell; AB Dun Laoghaire

Jimmy Hayden; Fireman, Dun Laoghaire, aged 37.

William Holland; Chief Steward, Dun Laoghaire, aged 57.

William Rushby, Leading Fireman, Dun Laoghaire, aged 43.

Paddy Shortt; Fireman, Dun Laoghaire, aged 43.

May they rest in peace.