THE Didim branch of AKUT marked the 15th anniversary of an earthquake that killed 18,000 people with a special event at Ataturk Square last Sunday.
The event organised by Didim Belediye saw AKUT, the national search and rescue organisation, give a presentation on the work of AKUT, both nationally and internationally; the impact of earthquakes and on how people can protect themselves from their effects.
The presentation was given by Alp Kököz, one of the original founders of AKUT who now lives in the USA and heads up the American branch of AKUT.
Steve Lambert, the team leader of AKUT Didim, then informed the audience of about 300, on how the local Didim AKUT was formed initially by dedicated expats and how it has now evolved to include a large young Turkish element to its team.
Steve was keen to point out how well both the British and Turkish members of the team are working together. Following the presentations the AKUT team were given an impromptu standing ovation.
Afterwards Steve said,” The applause was something we never really expected, but it’s nice to know that after all the hard work the team puts in week in, week out that it is actually appreciated.”
The event marks a busy time for AKUT Didim following a visit from its president earlier in the month and its first live operation.
If you want to join, or want to make a donation to AKUT Didim please contact: AKUT Didim Teamleader Steve Lambert: 0531 315 5135 or AKUT Didim Assistant Team leader Fatih Saglam: 0541 590 42 23