On October 30 and November 2, 14 WCHDIST frontline officers at the ranks of Police Constable to Inspector visited the US Aircraft Carrier - USS George Washington - moored in the Victoria Harbour. Some of them said after the visit: "Having a good chat on a fine day with the US Navy seamen enabled us to learn more about their life and work on board the carrier. The visit was a great chance to gain a better understanding of the US Navy as a whole. We also took the opportunity to explain our job and how we maintain law and order.

"We are glad to see the US Navy have faith in the Hong Kong Police and appreciate the support we provide for them. Following these two visits, there is a better understanding on both sides. The radar, control tower, the state-of-the-art weaponry and aircraft on the deck looked impressive."

The officers hope they can further improve services to US Navy personnel and co-operation with the US Navy Patrol in tackling "quick cash crime" targetting the US seamen.

US Navy personnel enjoy shopping in Causeway Bay and patronising the bars in Wan Chai. Hence, whenever US warships are visiting Hong Kong, WCHDIST will make special arrangements, such as stepping up anti-crime patrol and crime prevention publicity in the two areas, as well as setting up a police post to provide professional support and assistance to the US Navy and their families. With these special arrangements, around 6,000 US Navy personnel and 4,800 family members recently enjoyed a pleasant and safe trip to Hong Kong.

WCHDIST is grateful to the United States Consulate General in Hong Kong for making the officers' visits possible at a short notice. It has also expressed special thanks to Mr John Ling from the Consulate's Regional Security Office, for his seamless arrangement for the visits.

Mutual understanding enhanced