One of Flavin Sweeney's duties was to make weather observations that were reported to Allied forces during the Second World War.
On 3 June 1944, her 21st birthday, Flavin Sweeney made the first observation of a coming storm that threatened Allied vessels in the English Channel.
Maureen Flavin was born in Knockanure,[1] in County Kerry, on 3 June 1923,[2][3][4] her birth was registered as Mary Christine.
Under an August 1939 agreement, the station was one of a number in Ireland that provided daily weather readings to the British Met Office via telegraph.
[4] On 3 June 1944, her 21st birthday, Flavin Sweeney got up at 1 am Double British Summer Time, to make the hourly reading.
The drop in pressure was the first indication of an incoming severe storm that could make hazardous conditions for any crossing of the English Channel.
[10] Measurements made over the following reports from 2 am to 7 am showed a continuing drop in pressure, with a steady wind and worsening rain.
[10][11] As a result of the weather reports Eisenhower agreed to a postponement of the invasion by 24 hours, from 5 to 6 June, potentially saving lives from stormy waters.
Congressman and former U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant-General Jack Bergman said "her skill and professionalism were crucial in ensuring Allied victory, and her legacy will live on for generations to come".