12 of the 14 members of the UK international search and rescue team from West Midlands Fire Service that were deployed to the earthquake zone in Haiti, returned to Gatwick earlier this this morning. After some rest they travelled back to the West Midlands and arrived at Solihull Fire Station at 11:30 hours.
They were met by the Deputy Chief Fire Officer Martin Clark together with families, friends and colleagues at a VIP reception at Solihull Fire Station. Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Martin Clark said “We are all immensely proud of the work carried out by our search and rescue team”.
“They have evidently played a key role in the international rescue efforts to help the people of Haiti. This demonstrates all the hard work, training and dedication by all those involved.
“A tragedy like this presents a tough environment to work in and our team has great experience of working in these challenging conditions. We are pleased that West Midlands Fire Service personnel have been able to assist in Haiti but are all now very glad that they are home safe and well.”
Cllr Tony Ward, Chairman of the Fire and Rescue Authority said “I am extremely proud of our team and the work they have performed, they are selfless people who would normally be putting their skills to use making the people of the West Midlands safer”.
The team had been out in Haiti since Wednesday 13 January.
Two members of the team remain in Haiti carrying out Command, Control and Coordination duties.
