Swinford native who won Scott Medal for Bravery passes away
Ben Thornton (RIP)
The death has occurred of Ben Thornton, Rathleague, Portlaoise and Swinford.
He died peacefully at the Regional Hospital, Portlaoise, last Wednesday.
He was one of five gardaí presented with Scott Medals in 2017 for the courage they displayed during the IRA bombing at Garryhinch near Portarlington in 1976.
Detective Garda Thornton suffered injuries to his head, ears and eyes in the explosion but returned to work following his recovery before retiring from the force in 1999.
Predeceased by his sisters Mary and Patsy and brother Eddie, he is deeply regretted by his wife Norrie, son Alan, daughter Lorena, sisters Sr Augusta and Theresa, son-in-law Rory, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and good friend Joe and former colleagues in An Garda Siochána.
Requiem Mass took place today (Friday) at SS Peter and Paul's Church, Portloaise, with cremation to follow tomorrow.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
