Derrill Henderson
The HKVCA depends completely on volunteers to do our work. We are very pleased to honour one of our longest-serving volunteers – Derrill Henderson - with the HKVCA Leadership Award.
Shortly after the end of the war, Hong Kong Veterans began meeting regularly and holding reunions like the one we just held in Ottawa. After some years, they created the Hong Kong Veterans Association (HKVA). A big part of the HKVA’s work was campaigning for adequate support from the government, and compensation for their treatment as slaves by their Japanese captors.
Over time, as the Veterans became fewer and fewer, it became clear that before long their association would cease to exist in its current form.
So,
in the early 1990s, as the veterans recognized the need to
ensure their legacy endured, discussions began about
involving the next generation. It was proposed that the
children of veterans carry on their important
work—supporting widows, veterans, and continuing with
education efforts. Derrill Henderson stepped forward to help
spearhead these discussions. After months of consultations,
travel, and planning, the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative
Association (HKVCA) was formed with full support from the
veterans themselves. Derrill served as the National
President—a role he held with distinction for many years
before passing the torch.
Derrill Henderson is the proud son of Private Stewart Henderson of the Royal Rifles of Canada (RRC). Derrill attended Richmond High School in Quebec, where he was a passionate hockey player—his love for the sport continues to this day.
Later in life, Derrill pursued theological studies at university, deepening his lifelong commitment to service and community. Derrill and his family eventually settled in Ottawa, where he worked for 21 years for the Federal Government in Information Services before his retirement.
Derrill and his wife Vivian were longtime attendees of many reunions and conventions of the HKVA and later, the HKVCA.
Even in retirement, Derrill remains an active contributor to the HKVCA. He serves as a valued consultant, a local representative here in Ottawa, and continues to maintain his many contacts across various levels of government and community organizations, all of which greatly benefit the HKVCA. He is also the official minister for HKVCA events.
Thank you, Derrill, for your many years of unwavering dedication and service to both the HKVA and the HKVCA. Your efforts have left a lasting legacy.
(Submitted by Mike Babin)
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