Funeral with honours held for fallen fireman Ho Wai-ho

A senior firefighter who lost his life battling last month’s deadly blaze at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po was laid to rest on Friday with full honours. The funeral service for the late Ho Wai-ho was held at the Universal Funeral Parlour in Hung Hom, attended by Chief Executive John Lee and other senior officials including Eric Chan, Paul Chan and Paul Lam. They joined Ho’s family, colleagues and members of the public in paying their final respects. Members of the public began gathering outside the parlour from 8am, many laying flowers in tribute. One mourner, surnamed Ho, expressed grief. "I know many Hong Kong residents were deeply moved by the incident. I hope these kinds of tragedies will never happen again. I truly pray for Hong Kong," he said. A woman surnamed Cheung spoke of the sacrifices made by firefighters. "I feel very touched. I think firefighters are very selfless. They often have to make sacrifices. They trade their safety for our safety," she said. "I hope his family can find peace soon, and that Mr Ho has reached another place where he can find peace and happiness." Following the ceremony, a group of firefighters carried the coffin – draped in a regional flag – to a fire services hearse, which was adorned with a wreath from Ho’s fiancée. A contingent of government officials and Fire Services Department personnel stood solemnly in rows outside as the procession departed. The hearse made a poignant pass by Wang Fuk Court, the scene of the fatal fire, for an on-site ceremony. It will then proceed to Sha Tin Fire Station, where Ho had been stationed, before arriving for the burial ceremony at Gallant Garden in Wo Hop Shek Cemetery. Senior fireman Ho sustained serious injuries while responding to the firefighting and rescue operation at Wang Fuk Court and later died. The 37-year-old had joined the Fire Services Department in 2016. In recognition of his sacrifice, the department posthumously conferred upon him the honourary rank of senior fireman.