XN000022-1973-04-04 — Page 15

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Wednesday, April 4, 1973

radiated heat was so intense that approach in wooden vessels was hazardous

and to swim in the heat area was a tremendous test of both courage and

endurance. At this time these eight gentlemen, members of the Royal

Hong Kong Police Force and the Fire Services Department, were called

to the scene, and without exception they displayed complete disregard

for their safety in going to the assistance of the workers who had been

on the vessel, many of whom were swimming in the harbour or clinging on to the

hull. Although some were not strong swimmers they swam to the assistance

of the injured and frightened and terved them to places of safety, continuing

their efforts until everyone possible had been saved. Their actions were

in the highest traditions of bravery and saved the lives of many.

MR. LAU KAN-YAN and

MR. TSE YUEN-CHI Queen's Commendations for Brave Conduct

Mr. Lau and Mr. Tse were both employed in a bank which was the

scene of an armed robbery attempt. Mr. Lau deliberately tripped the alarm

system to summon the police, knowing that if his action had been seen his

life would have been endangered, and thereafter acted in a dilatory way to

allow the police time to arrive on the scene. Mr. Tse, although unarmed,

tackled an armed man and recovered some $5,000 with total disregard for his

own safety. The action of both Mr. Lau and Mr. Tse is worthy of the highest

praise.

/PRESENTATION OF