From military.ie
http://www.military.ie/dfhq/pubrel/news/2009/october/new13Octa.htm-----------------------------------------------
Tributes Paid to Air Corps Crew The remains of Captain Derek Furniss and Cadet David Jevens have been removed from the crash site to University College Hospital Galway. As the investigation continues into the causes of the crash of the Pilatus PC-9 last night, General Officer Commanding the Air Corps, Brigadier General Ralph James summed up the mood at the moment by saying:
"The Air Corps is devastated by the loss these two very fine young men. The mood here is very sombre. Derek was a consummate professional who set and drove standards in all his work in Baldonnel.
David was living his life’s dream to become an Air Corps pilot and was on the cusp of achieving that later in the year with his classmates. Their loss is felt deeply here in Casement but also within the family’s I have met and the community’s they are from."
Captain Matt Quinlan who worked and instructed with Derek Furniss in the Flight Training School spoke of the loss of the two men saying:
“Derek worked in flight training for a long time here in Baldonnel and his legacy will always be the standards he set for everyone. He was an excellent teacher and he was always the steady hand within the school that was called upon for informed insight into individual cadet pilots. He was also an avid Leinster Rugby supporter who held season tickets.
David was a member of the 27 Air Corps Cadet Class with six other classmates who have visited his family today. He was a quiet individual who worked very hard. When you flew with him you knew his preparation would be 100% because he was so committed. He went home to his beloved Wexford every weekend to be with friends and family and would have turned 22 [years of age] today.
This is a very difficult time for all of us here, but nothing compared to Derek and David’s families and our hearts go out to them. Their loss is immeasurable.”
From a young age Captain Derek Furniss was highly involved in Scouting Ireland and actively supported and promoted scouting activities in south Dublin. He completed the Dublin City Marathon in 2008 and went on to further athletic success with Rathfarnham Athletic Club. Derek was also an avid Leinster and Ireland rugby fan and as a season ticket holder attended every home game.
Derek recently achieved academic success with the award of a first class honours Bachelor of Science Degree through the School of Business in DIT. He also held a Degree in Marketing and as fan of Coldplay attended all their recent Irish concerts.
Cadet David Jevens was scheduled to graduate with his Military Pilot Wings and Officer Commission later this year. David also had a keen interest in motor sports, owning and restoring several vehicles. In recent times, he became involved in Kayaking and, in the process, taught himself to swim. A keen model aircraft pilot, David was renowned in the Wexford model flying community for his skill, and also his enduring interest in Search and Rescue flying.
As a mark of respect to our two Air Corps colleagues the Defence Forces Annual Gala Concert scheduled for Saturday 17 October 2009 at the National Concert Hall has been postponed until the New Year.
Further information from:
Press Officer: Comdt. Gavin Young 01 8042687 : 087 2482130
e-mail: pressofficer@defenceforces.iol.ie web:
www.military.ie
