There were celebrations in Gaoth Dobhair on Saturday as two local children, Rory McDevitt,  Sheskinbeg and Oisín Campbell, Magheraclogher graduated as the Garda Síochána Little Blue Heroes. Rory is a son of Alan and Claire McDevitt while Oisín is a son of Cathal and Fionnuala Campbell.

The event took place in Ionad Naomh Pádraig, Dore and present were their extended families.  Piper Brian McCafferty was on hand to escort Rory, Oisín and their families into the main hall of the centre. Superintendant Garda David Kelly presented them with their credentials. Following the graduation ceremony a lovely tea party took place with all the food served was kindly sponsored.

Garda Siobhán Campbell, Bunbeg Garda Station, outlined the background and the work of the Little Blue Hero.

Present were members of An Garda Síochána, The Fire Brigade, members of the Bunbeg based Coast and Rescue Service and Ambulance personnel. A cavalcade accompanied the youngsters and their families over the road afterwards.

Little Blue Heroes Foundation is a not-for-profit charity operated entirely by volunteers (no paid staff) made up of Garda members/staff, retired Garda members, their families, friends and civic minded people from communities. It aims to help families in need from local communities in Ireland who have children undergoing long-term medical treatment for serious illness. The name ‘Little Blue Heroes’ came about when it was established that the vast amount of the children they support have a strong fascination with police uniform, equipment, vehicles, Garda units, etc. This has even led some of the children to make a wish to become an Honorary Garda and become part of the Garda family.