PI course members celebrate 35th re-union
A total of 23 members of Probationary Inspector (PI) Courses 148, 149 and 150 of the former Police Training School (PTS) celebrated their 35th Annual Reunion in Hong Kong from January 27 to February 1.
Three course members are still serving in the Force: Commissioner Tsang Wai-hung, Deputy Commissioner (Management) Ma Wai-luk and Kowloon East Regional Commander Mike Cartwright.
Many course members flew into Hong Kong from such far-flung places as California, England, Tokyo, Sydney, France, Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Many brought along their wives, including course instructor, Mr Ian Peggs.
The reunion week was blessed with fine weather, unlike the very cold weather in January 1978 when course members started their training.
In a buffet dinner at the Aberdeen Boat Club, a DVD compiled by Edwin U with old photos and video clips of course members was shown. The audience was mesmerized by many old memories flooding back. Edwin came up with a "Then and Now" section to show how everyone has changed since PTS days, drawing a lot of laughter.
The next re-union function was a lecture on calligraphy given by Brando Ma, an accomplished calligraphist and watercolour artist, at Police Officers' Club (POC). The next day course members trekked all the way from Shatin to Kowloon City via Shatin Pass, finishing at the Kowloon West Headquarters Officers' Mess, where a Shaffi's curry was served.
On Wednesday course members toured Police Headquarters following a lunch in the Rendezvous Restaurant in PHQ. The next day CP hosted a garden party in his residence, again blessed by fine weather for an enjoyable day. Dick Ferne arranged for everyone to get a Polo Rugby Shirt with "35th Reunion 2013" printed on the front and "PI 148, 149, 150 1978-2013" on the sleeve. Everyone put on the shirt for group photos.
The re-union week concluded with a black tie dinner at POC. Prior to the dinner, Brando Ma staged an exhibition of his students' calligraphic works at the City Hall, with CP being the officiating guest.
CP was also the guest of honour at the dinner and was ushered into the dining room by a police piper. It was an excellent night and great way to strengthen bonds of friendship.
Sam Li, a retired police officer, recorded the highlights of the re-union with his outstanding photographic skills. Well over 700 photos have been burned to DVD and every course member was presented with a copy, which would certainly bring them many fond memories.
