RIP: 'Benchmark of courage' - Laois Offaly garda division pays tribute to late sergeant

The Laois Offaly Garda Division has paid a warm tribute to the on the death of Laois Offaly Garda who put his life on the line for Ireland during the Troubles.

"It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of retired Sergeant James (Jim) Cannon, formerly of An Garda Síochána and based at Portarlington," said the statement.

The Galway native, who died peacefully at the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore surrounded by his loving family, served in the gardaí for decades, but his career in policing was violently interrupted by an IRA bomb near Port. The garda statement recounted the incident which they described as a 'night of sacrifice' when the man responded to a threat to the life of then Laois Offaly TD Oliver J Flanagan and his family in Mountmellick.

"Few of us will forget his role on 16 October 1976 at the site of the Garryhinch ambush on the Laois–Offaly border.

"On that October evening, Gardaí responded to a call of suspicious activity at a farmhouse in Garryhinch. Among those sent were Michael Clerkin, Gerry Bohan, Tom Peters, Ben Thornton and Sergeant Jim Cannon.

"Tragically, a booby-trap bomb exploded when the front door was opened. Garda Clerkin was killed at the scene; the others — including Jim — were seriously injured, enduring lifelong physical and psychological impacts.

"Jim later recounted how he was trapped under rubble and how the blast changed all their lives," said the statement.

The bravery and sacrifice shown by Jim and his colleagues was finally recognised by the State with the awarding of the Scott Medal for Bravery in 2017.

His division praised a life of service and character in service of the State throughout his career. 

"While the gallantry of that night defined a key moment, Jim’s career and his character will define his legacy. His dedication to the Garda service set a benchmark of courage and professionalism. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

The late Jim Cannon is survived by his wife Mary. Pic: Harvey

"As a community man in Portarlington, he was widely respected, a rock to his family, colleagues and neighbours. Across many years, he stood as a witness and advocate for the effects of that bombing, as a reminder of the cost paid by front‐line public servants," said the Division.

READ ALSO: Tribute from Charlie Flanagan and the Laois Offaly branch of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors

The Laois Offaly Division concluded by extending sincere condolences to Jim’s wife Mary (née Shanahan), his children Pádraig, Marie and Carmel, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his sister Maureen, and the entire Cannon, Shanahan and extended families.

"We will remember Jim not just for the horrors he endured, but for how he carried himself with dignity, commitment and unwavering service. His courage in recovery, sense of duty and community spirit will continue to inspire.

"May his memory be a blessing. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam," said the Garda Division.

His remains repose at Maher's Chapel of Rest, Portarlington (eircode R32 X5XV) on Tuesday evening from 5:30pm with Rosary at 8pm.

Removal from his residence on Wednesday morning at 11:15 am, arriving St Michael's Church, Portarlington for Requiem Mass at 12 noon. Funeral afterwards to St Michael's Cemetery Portarlington.

Reposing at Maher's Chapel of Rest, Portarlington (eircode R32 X5XV) on Tuesday evening from 5:30pm with Rosary at 8pm. Removal from his residence on Wednesday morning at 11:15am, arriving St Michael's Church, Portarlington for Requiem Mass at 12 noon. Funeral afterwards to St Michael's Cemetery, Portarlington.

Jim's Requiem Mass will be streamed live on. https://www.mcn.live/Cameras/st-michaels-church-portarlington

Family flowers only please. Donations if Desired to The Friends Of The Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore.