XN000022-1973-07-31 — Page 3

Tuesday, July 31, 1973

Throughout there was an imminent danger of possible earth movement

and further landslides.

The rescue teams were only able to continue for short periods at

a time due to the immense physical exertion. The whole operation lasted

13 hours during which all of them were exposed to extreme danger.

Awarded the George Medal was Mr. Leung Shiu-kay, Station Fire

Officer, who spent a total of seven-and-a-half hours in tunnelling work,

despite grave personal danger. He displayed courage of a very high order

with complete. disregard to his own personal safety.

Mr. A.S. Conway, Divisional Officer, and Mr. Ng Kam-hung, Principal

Fireman, have been awarded the Colonial Police Medal for Gallantry.

It was Mr. Conway who located the trapped person and organised the

initial tunnelling for his rescue. He worked continuously for six-and-a-

half hours until he was ordered to rest by his superior. His exemplary

conduct was an inspiration to all those engaged in the rescue.

Hr. Ng displayed courage and gallantry throughout the five hours

he spent tunnelling despite the grave risks involved.

Her Majesty has also approved the Queen's Commendation for Brave

Conduct to six other firemen involved in the operation.

They are: Mr. Cheung Shu-shing, Divisional Officer, ir. J.D. Moran

Assistant Divisional Officer, Mr. Tsui Hin-kwing, Station Officer, Kong Kim,

Principal Fireman, Mr. Hung Sui-to and Mr. Li Chuon, both fireuen,

All displayed great courage and worked for considerable lengths of timo

to help make the tunnel possible.

The Queen's Commendation also goes to Senior Inspector G.S. Shirra,

and Mr. T.. Berrecloth, a civil engineer.

Insp. Shirra was off-duty at home in Park Road near the Kotewall Road

disaster site at about 9 p.m. when he heard sirens and noises outside.

/After