Former Detective Garda Sean Herraghty of the Donegal Division has been awarded a medal of bravery for his role in the rescue of a prominent businessman from IRA kidnappers.
Supermarket executive Don Tidey was kidnapped outside his home in Dublin in November 1983. He was held captive for 23 days by an armed IRA gang before he was rescued by gardaí and the Defence Forces.
Of those who played crucial roles in the operation was retired Detective Garda Sean Herraghty of the Donegal Division.
Following a nationwide search, Mr. Tidey was located in Leitrim. As sustained bursts of gunfire rang out with Garda and Army personnel taken hostage, urgent assistance was sought to which Detective Garda Sean Herraghty responded.
Fully aware of the dangers involved Detective Garda Herraghty encountered a known suspect on his response route and upon a measured and cautious approach, secured his arrest.
Detective Garda Herraghty and six other gardaí were presented the Scott Medal Commendation First Class by Deputy Commissioner Shawna Coxon at an awards ceremony at the Sligo Park Hotel, Co Sligo, on Tuesday.
This commendation recognises courageous conduct involving risk to life in the execution of a Garda’s duty.
Garda Gary Sheehan and Pte Patrick Kelly were shot dead in the incident in 1983. A Gold Scott medal was awarded posthumously to Garda Sheehan in 2021. Private Paddy Kelly was posthumously honoured with the Military Star medal in 2012.
