Eighteen people from across the country who, through their bravery and quick thinking, saved 15 people from drowning over the last three years have been honoured this evening.
The ceremony, which took place online, was organised by Water Safety Ireland.
Its Chief Executive has said a huge deal of gratitude is owed to the rescuers.
Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Joanna Walsh said an additional 30 volunteers were also to be honoured at the ceremony, recognising a total of 545 years of dedicated service between them.
"It's those volunteers who provide the invaluable service of teaching swimming and rescue skills, lifesaving, basic life support and promoting water safety awareness for our families, friends and communities who are keeping us all safe."
Ms Walsh also stressed that, ahead of Christmas and New Year swims, it remains important to put safety first when around water.
"Know your ability, know your limits, know your surroundings, be aware of signage, be aware of warnings, try not to swim alone and make sure someone is aware of where you are."
She also urged people to be aware of the dangers of drowning.
"Drownings can happen silently and quickly, but with the right skills, knowledge and attitude, everyone can avoid these hazards, take responsibility for their own safety and with this, they will be able to enjoy their water experience," she said.
Among this evening's honourees was Garda Sarah Lynam who, when alerted to a person in distress in the water at Bachelors Quay in Dublin last August, ran from the GPO and swam to the person, before performing CPR, allowing the person to make a full recovery.
Also honoured was John Timlin from Co Kerry, who after finishing a surf lesson in August noticed swimmers in difficulty at Fermoyle strand.
After battling through high waves, he managed to pull a girl who was semi-conscious onto his surfboard and bring her back to land, where he placed her into the recovery position before emergency services arrived.
A man from the Travelling community who in May 2021 - then aged 17 - rescued a mother and daughter from drowning in the River Barrow was also honoured.
Miley Doran, who was hailed by President Michael D Higgins as "one of life’s true heroes" for his efforts, had noticed a mother and daughter in difficulty in the river.
He immediately jumped into the water and managed to bring the young girl to safety, before entering the water again to rescue her mother.
