In 1955-57 two remaining CWS (Coast Watching Stations) manned by the Royal Navy remained. Formerly there were as many as five. These stations ringed Hong Kong Island and the New Territories. They were observation radar and radio stations situated on the highest ground at Chueng Chau and Tai'o and both buildings are still there (2014) . The purpose was to observed and report Pearl River shipping to and fro from Canton. They were also to monitor and protect the progress and activities of the Armed Motor Launches of the Hong Kong Flotilla. Self contained stations, the personnel were on duty 24 hours per day. They were in communication with to British Forces HQ on Victoria Island. In September 1953 they were to witness the tragedy of the Pearl River Incident. This was when ML 1323 was fired upon by a Chinese Patrol Craft, which allegedly had entered illegally into Chinese territory. Seven crew members were killed. Their boat ML1323 managed to reach Tai'o harbour with the dead and the dying. The boat was brought to safety under the gallant command of the now late Leading Seaman Gordon Cleaver OBE( Chairman Hong Kong Flotilla 1999-2008) and with the vital assistance of the Chief Stoker Eric Milner. Milner and Able Seaman Ralph Shearman were " mentioned in Despatches. Eric Milner is now the sole survivor of this tragedy. AB Shearman was killed in action whilst at the wheel of the Motor Launch.