Buckingham Honors British Firefighters for Their Role in Morocco Earthquake Relief
Three firefighters from the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service in northwest England were honored as special guests at a ceremony held at Buckingham Palace in early May. The recognition acknowledged their contributions to relief efforts following the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco in 2023, resulting in nearly 3,000 fatalities.
The honorees include Ian McGee, the team leader from Colne, Wayne Ward, the watch commander from Blackpool, and Richard Cutler, a firefighter from Fleetwood. The three were part of the British International Search and Rescue Team (UKISAR) that operated in the affected areas. The Lancashire Telegraph reported details of the event, confirming that their attendance was part of a broader acknowledgment of the team.
During their mission in Morocco, they were accompanied by a dog named Davy and handler Lindsey Sielski, working alongside 60 members from various parts of the UK as part of UKISAR, which was deployed immediately after the disaster to assist with rescue operations under extremely challenging conditions.
Wayne Ward expressed his pride in receiving the honor, stating that their work in Morocco was physically and emotionally taxing. However, the realization of the help they provided to victims made the mission worthwhile. He added that their participation was a humanitarian privilege and a source of pride in representing both the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and the UK on an international stage.
The team’s field mission focused on searching for survivors under the rubble in collaboration with international teams. They successfully rescued a 91-year-old woman and helped reunite a mother with her two-year-old daughter, which were among the highlights of the operation.
UKISAR is part of the British government’s emergency response network and remains on standby year-round. The royal ceremony is held annually to honor individuals who have contributed to public service and humanitarian efforts both within and outside the UK.
