Niamh Fitzpatrick, sister of Captain Dara Fitzpatrick, paid tribute to Dara online last night.
“Dara, 4 years gone from us today. No warning. No goodbyes. You died alone in the cold, dark seas ... I can only hope that in your final moments, your family’s love wrapped you up & held you tight. You are loved & missed, today & every day,” Niamh said.
The Irish Coast Guard also remembered their four lost years in a touching tribute.
“Four years ago today our emergency rescue family lost four of the finest crew members from R116, Dara, Mark, Paul and Ciarán.
“They will be forever remembered. Our thoughts today are with their families, friends and colleagues. Go Mairidís Beo,” a post from the Irish Coast Guard read.