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19 Feb 2026
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19 Feb 2026
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Leitrim woman Marie Keegan Reilly has been awarded the British Empire Medal, recognising the 'unsung heroes'.
Marie Keegan Reilly from Aughnasheelin was awarded the British Empire Medal, which was bestowed by Charles III, King of the United Kingdom, at a reception at Saint James’s Palace.
The British Empire Medal (BEM) is awarded to individuals for hands-on service to their local community, recognising exceptional, long-term contributions.
The medal is one of the highest honours that one can earn in the UK, which Marie earned through 50 years of service to children and families as she worked a social worker in the London Borough of Islington.
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Marie was accompanied by her daughter, Ellen Anne, and granddaughters, Eden and Luna to the Tower of London to receive the award in November, and in February, she met the King and Queen at a reception at Saint James’s Palace.
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Marie sums up the experience, “It was amazing, I had to pinch myself to believe it was real.”
Marie is a former chairperson of the Sliabh an Iarann project Committee and a regular contributor to the Leitrim Guardian.
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