The Guardian Star
This decoration is presented to the Guardians of the Name who wear it as the custodians and trustees of their branch of the O’Byrne Clans of Leinster.
There are currently five recognised ancient lines of Clan O’Byrne of Leinster, Gabhal Raghnaill (Ranelagh) and the the four lines of Crioch Brannach namely Newrath, Downes, Kiltimon and Croneroe.
The Guardian Star is unique and was specially designed for Clan O’Byrne by MMI Ltd. in Dublin. It was instigated and presented for the first time on Tuesday the 24th of July 2012 to Lt.-Col. Charles Artaud Byrne as Guardian of the house of Gabhal Raghnaill (Ranelagh) and to Derek J. Byrne as Guardian of the house of Downes.
The decoration will be sent to Count Henri O’Byrne of St. Gery in France as the Guardian of the Newrath line of Clan O’Byrne.
As of yet, there are no known Guardians of the Name for the Kiltimon or Croneroe lines of Clan O’Byrne.
The Order of Wearing
The Guardain Star is a silver badge with the generic O’Byrne coat of arms at its centre. It is worn on the left breast.
The decoration is worn only when the wearer is representing their clan in an official capacity or at formal occassions which allow the wearing of decorations.