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Family of man killed in Leitrim kidnapping rescue receive bravery medal

Sep 24, 2021 13:07 By Shannonside News
Family of man killed in Leitrim kidnapping rescue receive bravery medal
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Don Tidey, who is now in his 80s, was also present at today's event.

The Garda Commissioner has praised the courage of 15 gardai in the rescue operation of prominent businessman Don Tidey almost 40 years ago.

They’ve been awarded the Scott Medal which is the Garda's highest award for bravery.

John Sommers, the son of the late Detective Spt William Somers recalling the day of the rescue operation in December 1983.
Prominent businessman Don Tidey had been abducted in Dublin by the IRA and was found 23 days later in Co Leitrim.

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Two men were shot dead in the rescue operation – Private Patrick Kelly and Garda Gary Sheehan who had only been in the job three months.

His sister Jennifer McCann today received a posthumous gold medal for his bravery.

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In total 15 serving, retired or deceased gardai have been awarded Scott medals for their role in the operation to rescue Don Tidey.

Now in his 80s, the former supermarket tycoon was here for the ceremony but didn’t want to be interviewed.

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John Sommers says meeting him after all these years and following the death of his father was emotional.

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