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Seven Government Flying Service (GFS) officers have been commended by the Chief Executive on their successful completion of a four-month operational exchange with the Rescue and Salvage Bureau of the Ministry of Communications at Bohai Bay, Dalian.

The Secretary for Security, Mr Ambrose S K Lee, presented CE's commendation letters to the team comprising two pilots, two air crewman officers, one engineer, one aircraft technician and one communications officer at a special ceremony at the Security Bureau today (April 21).

The recipients are: Senior Air Crewman Officer, Mr Jimmy Choi Chiu-ming; Senior Pilot, Mr Michael Chan Chi-pui; Pilot I, Mr Lawrence Wong Chun-pong; Aircraft Engineer, Mr Donny Chan Wai-keung; Air Crewman Officer III, Mr Edward Li Kin-cheung; Senior Aircraft Technician, Mr Kan Chi-fai; and Communications Officer, Mr Alan Lee Kwok-lun.

This was the first exchange of its kind with the maritime rescue authorities of the Mainland and it took place from late November, 2003, to March, 2004, during the most trying time of the year in the area.

In the commendation letters, the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa said: "You brought your expertise and experience to the newly established rescue team at Dalian, helping to strengthen the training of rescue personnel in the Mainland, and enhancing their overall search and rescue capabilities."

"I have noted with admiration that on January 16, 2004, you braved raging winds and storm to mount the rescue of four Mainland crew members from a burning oil tanker.

"Your professionalism, courage and dedication have won the praise and gratitude of the Mainland authorities and the local community at Dalian.

"We in Hong Kong take pride in what you have achieved and contributed," he said.

At the same time, the exchange has provided invaluable experience and exposure to the Government Flying Service staff.

The Chief Executive added that this exchange assignment marked the beginning of the fruitful co-operation and exchanges in search and rescue work between Hong Kong and the Mainland.

Ends/Wednesday, April 21, 2004

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