The Commander-in-chief of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison, Lieutenant General Tan Benhong, reviewed the 183rd Fire Services passing-out parade for 15 station officers, 16 senior firemen of the Mobilising and Communications Group, 58 firemen and 45 ambulancemen at the Fire and Ambulance Services Academy today (September 7).
 
     Speaking at the parade, Mr Tan commended the Fire Services Department (FSD) as an important force in the disciplined services in Hong Kong, which has fulfilled its mission of "serving with courage, passion and commitment" and standing at the forefront of firefighting, disaster relief and emergency ambulance services. The FSD is known for its excellent team spirit and professional skills, he added.
 
     Mr Tan noted that the FSD has become more committed to expanding exchanges with its Mainland and overseas counterparts and has made continuous progress in broadening its horizons, strengthening its abilities and nurturing personnel since Hong Kong's return to the motherland. With better equipped venues and training facilities, the newly built Fire and Ambulance Services Academy provides adequate support for the comprehensive development of the fire services system in Hong Kong, he added.
 
     He encouraged the graduates to uphold the fine traditions of the FSD and contribute to safeguarding Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, as well as securing people's lives and property.
 
     The parade was followed by a demonstration of firefighting and rescue techniques by the graduates. The 134 graduates will be posted to the Fire Services Communications Centre as well as various fire stations and ambulance depots.

Ends/Friday, September 7, 2018
Issued at HKT 17:43

NNNN