Hong Kong rescue team sent on Turkey quake mission picked as first winner of high-level award for civil servants
- The 59-strong team rescued four people and recovered six bodies in southern Turkey after a huge 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the region in February
- Hong Kong leader John Lee says internal panel picked the team from among 20 nominees for Chief Executive’s Award for Exemplary Performance
The 59-strong team rescued four people and recovered six bodies in southern Turkey after a huge 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the region in February, killing tens of thousands. The team, which comprised Security Bureau, Fire Services Department, Immigration Department and Department of Health personnel, spent nine days on the mission.
He announced the creation of the award in his maiden policy address last October to recognise “meritorious and exemplary” civil servants on a regular basis to encourage them to strive for excellence.
“The team, which brought with them two rescue dogs and supplies weighing around 100 tonnes, was entrusted with the mission at a critical moment,” Lee said before his meeting with the Executive Council, the city’s key decision-making body.
“They faced numerous hardships including safety risks brought by aftershocks, collapsing buildings, ruined roads and chilly weather.
“With their devotion and professionalism, the team made the most of cross-departmental collaboration and risked their lives to achieve this daunting task … I believe most Hong Kong residents will salute the team for their efforts like I do.”
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