TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Monday hailed Taiwan’s police officers and firefighters as heroes, citing their record-breaking performance at the 21st World Police and Fire Games.

This year’s games were held in Birmingham, Alabama, from June 27 to July 6. Meeting with the Taiwan delegation, Lai noted their historic results, per CNA.

Competing against nearly 10,000 officers from more than 70 countries visiting the US, Taiwan won 168 medals, including 74 golds — the highest tally in the country’s history.

Lai said their outstanding performance demonstrates the spirit of “Taiwan’s Bravest,” showcasing excellent physical fitness and superb skills. He called each participant a shining light of Taiwan.

He described the event as an Olympics for law enforcement professionals, saying police excelled in martial arts and pistol events, while firefighters impressed in full-gear challenges and ladder climbs.

“Not every superhero wears a cape,” Lai said. “Anyone striving to make society better is a hero. You are all brave superheroes, heroes of society, and the nation is proud of you.”