Cian, 8, rides in lead garda car during parade

LIMERICK, Ireland – An eight-year-old boy named Cian Browne Vaughan experienced a dream come true on St. Patrick's Day. Cian, who is from Effin and has autism, got to help the local police, An Garda Síochána, as they managed the parade in Limerick. Cian rode in the lead police car and met many officers, including Sergeant Aoife Bannon and Garda Sarah Durack. He was especially excited to meet Mayor John Moran and his dog, Henri. This day was extra special for Cian, who loves everything about the police force. His journey with the police began when Inspector Padraigh Sutton learned about Cian's passion. He previously arranged a special visit to Cian’s home, where officers brought a new police vehicle to show him. “I've never seen him smile as much,” said Cian’s mother, Ellen. The preparations for Cian's role during the parade started two months earlier, on his birthday. Inspector Sutton called him to invite him to join the police for the event, and Cian counted down the days until March 17. On St. Patrick's Day, Cian attended a briefing at Henry Street police station and participated in the parade festivities. With the help of his new partner, Sergeant Tony Miniter, Cian enjoyed a day filled with smiles and a sense of accomplishment, making memories he will cherish forever.