Curraghboy's Luca becomes 'little blue hero' at Garda passing out parade

It was a moment to cherish for Luca Browne when he was adopted as an 'honorary Garda' at a recent passing out ceremony in Templemore College, County Tipperary.

The son of Joanne and Barry Browne from Coolagarry, Curraghboy, the 12 year old, in the company of his sisters Amelia Rose and Abigail, was a 'little blue hero' for the day.

The Browne family were initially contacted by Athlone based Garda Stacey Looby, representing the Little Blue Heroes Foundation, who recommended Luca for the 'honorary' experience in Templemore College.

Established in 2017, the Little Blue Heroes Foundation is a not-for-profit registered charity voluntarily led by Garda members, retired Garda members and civic minded people from communities.

"Garda Looby reached out to our family and was happy to recommend Luca for the 'little blue hero' experience," Barry said.

Barry could not fault the ceremonial occasion and all the care and attention afforded to the family when they arrived in Templemore College.

"The attention to detail and the care given to Luca was exceptional. A garda recruit was assigned to our family when we arrived and he look after our every need.

"We also had the opportunity to march in the official passing out parade alongside all the new garda recruits which was a special moment for us as a family.

"It was such a rewarding occasion and leaving Templemore College that afternoon our hearts were full," Barry added.

Luca received his graduation certificate from Assistant Garda Commissioner Eileen Foster, Barry commending the "community feel" which was such a prominent characteristic of the ceremony.