Greencastle Coast Guard salutes Brian Thompson’s 40-Year lifesaving legacy

A remarkable milestone is being celebrated as Moville native Brian Thompson marks 40 years of dedicated service with the Irish Coast Guard service, receiving his 40 Year Long Service Medal in recognition of an extraordinary commitment to his community.

Brian, a long-standing and much-respected member of the Greencastle Coast Guard Unit, has dedicated four decades of unwavering service to the coastline and community he calls home.

Over the past 40 years, Brian has played a vital role in the unit’s work, from frontline search and rescue missions to mentoring new recruits and promoting water safety awareness. His professionalism, calm leadership, and depth of experience have guided not only complex operations but also the many volunteers who have served alongside him.

Colleagues describe him as a steady hand in difficult moments and a constant source of knowledge and reassurance. His contribution has had a lasting impact both locally and nationally, reflecting the very best traditions of the Coast Guard service.

Those who know Brian say his legacy is about more than medals and missions. He is equally renowned within the unit for his legendary storytelling. The tales may sometimes be long-winded, and the punchline may take its time arriving, but they are always delivered with warmth, humour, and a fully captive audience. 

Speaking on behalf of the unit,  a spokesperson for Greencastle Coast Guard said, “Let’s just say his Coast Guard uniform has seen some interesting interpretations! Thankfully, his dedication has always been far more consistent than his fashion sense.”

The spokesperson for the rescue service said all jokes aside, the “medal is a fitting recognition of an extraordinary 40 years of service, commitment, and friendship. We are incredibly proud of you, Brian - a remarkable achievement and so very well deserved.”

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As the Greencastle, Moville, and surrounding areas in the community celebrate this remarkable milestone, there is no doubt that Brian Thompson’s contribution to coastal safety and volunteer service in Inishowen will be remembered for many years to come.