State House Honours Fire Service

The President of the Republic Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan honoured a team of SFRSA officers yesterday afternoon at State House. The event was a courtesy call to the President to recognize the valiant efforts of the SFRSA officers who attended to the ammonia leak incident on June 15th as well as honour retired Chief Fire Officer Mr. Albert Rose.

Mr. Rose served for 45 years with the agency and retired in July. In his remarks the Minister for Internal Mr. Charles E. Fonseka described Mr. Rose as an admirable example of perseverance and leadership as well as strong discipline and devotion to duty, “a fireman who still glows with fire” said Minister Fonseka. The Minister addressed the SFRSA team stating, “I wish to commend you all on this feat of selfless commitment to duty. Remember, there were many lessons learnt and work to improve. Safety and efficiency is always ongoing. Keep up the great work and thank you”.

President Ramkalawan praised the team and spoke words of encouragement and gratitude. The President spoke on several incidents where he witnessed the firefighters in action putting their lives on the line for the safety of others. The officers each received a token from the President and had the opportunity to converse with the President, Vice-President Mr. Ahmed Afif and Minister Fonseka after the ceremony.