In Pictures: Aaron Langan becomes Donegal Town’s most recent Honorary Garda

St Eunan’s National School, Laghey, is celebrating the remarkable achievement of one of its second class pupils, Aaron Langan, who has been named the most recent honorary Garda in Donegal Town through the Little Blue Heroes programme. Click on the arrows to see Philip Mulligan's photos of Aaron's garda graduation:

Aaron, who is eight years old, is well known in the school community for his enthusiasm for cars, tractors, and farming. He can identify countless makes and models  and impressively, can recognise many vehicles by sound alone. His keen interest in engines and machinery has made him a natural fit for the honorary role, and he is already considered a wonderful asset to the programme.

A cherished member of St Eunan’s, Aaron brings warmth, positivity, and joy to everyone he meets. Despite living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, he approaches each day with a radiant smile and a determined spirit that inspires staff and pupils alike.

Aaron’s teacher, Mrs Anne Meehan, along with classroom SNAs Michelle Travers, Kelly Bennett, and Jody Mc Groarty, describe him as a light in the classroom. They say his fun loving nature, compassion, and gentle spirit draw people to him instantly. His ability to lift the mood of the room and make others feel valued has made him one of the most treasured members of the school community.

Aaron has always talked of becoming a Garda so Mrs Meehan arranged a special visit to Donegal Town Garda Station on Monday, November 24 for Aaron and his classmates. What he didn’t know was that a very big surprise awaited him. During the visit, Aaron was presented with his own Garda uniform and officially welcomed as an honorary guard and Little Blue Hero.

He was joined on the day by his parents, Sinéad and Dermot Langan, and his older brother Patrick, a sixth-class pupil. The presentation was an emotional and memorable moment for everyone in attendance.

St Eunan’s National School has extended its heartfelt thanks to An Garda Síochána in Donegal Town, Garda Liaison Officers Yvonne Carolan and Patrick Mc Glynn and the Little Blue Heroes team for making this special day possible.

The school community is immensely proud of Aaron and delighted to celebrate this honour with him. As Donegal Town’s newest honorary Garda, Aaron’s bright spirit and determination continue to inspire all who know him.

He received a Garda escort back to school from the station today after receiving his award and was warmly welcomed with a massive guard of honour from all the pupils and staff.It was a very special and memorable day for all involved.