Today, at the Hong Kong Memorial Wall, a small ceremony was held to remember the Canadian soldiers who defended Hong Kong in December, 1941, and were the first Canadian soldiers to see action in WWII. “C” Force consisted of 1975 soldiers, mostly from the Winnipeg Grendiers and the Royal Rifles of Canada, of which 290 died in the 17 day battle, and a further 267 perished as prisoners.
The day was warm (for November) and sunny for the laying of wreaths led by MP Mauril Bélanger on behalf of Canada, and followed by veterans organizations and private families. Although the ceremony was short and without the pomp of many remembrance events, it was poignant regardless.
I did have the honour of meeting Mr. Norm. St. Aubin, who is the oldest para-rescue operator alive today at 94. As he said, ” I did it before they had helicopters…” which would have made the job certainly hazardous.
to see all the pictures, CLICK HERE
