January 1996 Coleman Hernon, ex-coxswain of Aran Islands lifeboat (formally known as Galway Bay).

Coleman became bowman of the lifeboat in 1949, 2nd Coxswain in 1951 and coxswain in 1960. After 15 years as coxswain, Coleman retired from the post and served as deputy launching authority until he was appointed station honorary secretary in 1977, a position he held for some 16 years until he became station honorary press officer in 1993. Coleman was awarded the Institution's Bronze Medal for gallantry in 1962, the Chairman's letter in 1967 and binoculars in 1988..