Speech by Commissioner of Police at the Force Remembrance Day (with photos)

     Following is the speech delivered by the Commissioner of Police, Mr Siu Chak-yee, at the Force Remembrance Day today (November 10):
      
     Distinguished guests and colleagues, we are here today to honour all members of the Hong Kong Police Force, both regular and auxiliary, who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the community of Hong Kong. This solemn ceremony is also a fitting tribute to the dedication to duty and fortitude of all members of staff who have served in the Force over the past 179 years.
      
     Since the founding of the Hong Kong Police Force in 1844, members of the Force have been facing different dangers in the course of our duties. Without fear, we have always put the people of Hong Kong first in our determination to safeguard the prosperity and stability of this city. In doing so, some members of the Force paid the ultimate price, and it is in memory of their sacrifices that we are gathered here in remembrance today.
      
     The fallen officers, who remain a source of pride for the Force, have etched their legacy in history through their dedicated and exemplary service in protecting our people’s lives and property. Their sacrifices underscore the risks and challenges inherent in our daily work as police officers. Through it all, it remains our highest honour to serve and defend our community. We pledge to uphold the legacy of those who came before us and remain steadfast in our commitment to the Force's mission of ensuring national security and public safety. Our motto, “Serving Hong Kong with Honour, Duty and Loyalty”, guides us as we rise to meet the challenges of every operation. It inspires us to respond to public reports and concerns with empathy and attentiveness, ensuring every citizen feels heard and supported.
      
     In this ceremony, we are also joined by members of the Hong Kong Police Old Comrades Association, the Royal Hong Kong Police Association and former Force members. Like the many who came before them, they represent the finest traditions of service to the community for which the Force is both famed and justifiably proud – traditions, which continue today and are passed on from generation to generation and that make the Hong Kong Police Force one of the finest law enforcement agencies in the world.
      
     To all of you present here today, may I ask you to remain standing, and following the “Last Post”, join me in observing a two-minute silence in memory of all those who have fallen in the line of duty.