West Midlands Firefighters describe how they saved multiple lives from devastating Turkey earthquake
Eight members of West Midlands Fire Service were involved in the UK rescue mission
Eight West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) were part of the UK’s response to the devastating earthquake that struck the south of Turkey and northern Syria.
More than 41,000 people have died from the 7.8 magnitude earthquake.
WMFS is among 14 UK fire and rescue services (FRSs) to have answered the call for international help.
Those deployed are volunteer members of UK International Search and Rescue (UKISAR). They include search dogs and handlers, and were joined by dedicated medical teams who volunteer from UK organisations outside of the fire and rescue service.
Watch Commander Jim McParland, who lives in Stourbridge, described the moment he reunited a family who had been trapped under a building for three days: "We were able to pull a two year-old girl and her mother and father out alive from the wreckage."
"It's what's it all about. I felt really privilege to play a small part of that team that made that happen."
Watch Commander, Joe McGregor from Cannock, added: "The rescue phrase took over 20 hours. It was a real prolonged incident and just seeing the relief on the women's face when she realised she was going to be rescued, was a really euphoric feeling.
"I'm still processing a lot of the feelings but that's one thing I will never forget," he said.
Wayne Brown, Chief Fire Officer of West Midlands Fire Service, said: “The news and imagery from Türkiye and Syria are truly devastating. Our thoughts are with everyone who is grieving, or otherwise affected by the earthquakes.
“We are proud to be among the UK fire and rescue services who have sent teams as part of the international response.
“The West Midlands UKISAR volunteers will provide a command support function. We are extremely grateful to them, and will be giving them all possible support during their deployment.”