HKVCA -Summer 2023 - Contents
President's Message
Mike
Babin
On April 15 George MacDonell, a man so many of us knew and
respected, passed away at age 100. George was a proud Royal
Rifle, and never tired of eloquently telling the stories of his
comrades in battle and in the POW camps. He authored several
books about his experiences and those of his colleagues, and the
overarching themes in his writings were that freedom comes at a
cost, and that the Canadians in Hong Kong never surrendered and
never gave up. I highly recommend his books about ‘C’ Force to
all of you. You can find them on our
Suggested Reading page.
He was an inspiration to hundreds, if not thousands of
Canadians who heard his talks or read or watched his interviews
in the media.
George also published many essays to share his views on the
political and economic landscape in Canada.
With George’s passing, there is now only one remaining Hong
Kong Veteran, Hormidas Fredette, residing in Nova Scotia. This
gentleman, also a Royal Rifle, is an incredible 106 years old,
and still enjoying life! We should all be so lucky!
When our association, the HKVCA, was formed in 1997 the
Veterans decided that when only one of them remained they would
dissolve the HKVA, which they had formed shortly after the war.
This so-called Sunset Clause of the HKVA’s constitution has now
been executed, and all the responsibilities of the HKVA have now
formally passed to us in the HKVCA.
Across Canada we have nearly 500 members. It is up to all of
us to ensure that the stories of valour of the 1,975 Canadians
of ‘C’ Force do not disappear. Please consider doing your part
by volunteering for a remembrance activity, speaking to a school
or service club, helping with our teaching materials or any of
the other dozens of ways these Veterans can be honored and
remembered.
June is National Indigenous Heritage Month, and I am very
pleased to announce that our project to research and document
the stories of Indigenous veterans of ‘C’ Force is receiving a
terrific boost: the Métis Veterans Legacy Program has agreed to
provide up to $119,480 to help fund this major effort. We have
already received the first $40,000 installment of this funding,
and Pam Heinrichs is charging ahead with the hiring of
researchers to carry out the work.
We sincerely thank the Métis Veterans Legacy Program for
their very generous and welcome support of this project.
Finally, I recommend that you look at our newly revamped
website, www.hkvca.ca . Jim
Trick has done an awesome job of making it more visually
appealing and reorganizing the information it contains to make
it easier for users to find what they need. Great work, Jim!
I hope that the wildfires in western and eastern Canada are
not unduly affecting you and your families, and I wish you the
best for a happy and safe summer.
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
In Remembrance
Last Post
George MacDonell, A9220, RRC, on April 15, 2023.
In Memoriam
Marg Auld, widow of Hong Kong veteran George Auld, on May 4,
2023.
From the Editor
Jim
Trick
HKVA History
As you’re aware from reading other items in this edition, the “Sunset
Clause” is now in effect. Therefore, it’s more important than ever to
collect, as best we can, documents from HKVA so that the history of this
association is preserved.
Our
newsletter archives (scroll to the bottom of the linked page)
include several newsletters from various HKVA branches, but we believe
there are many more hiding in shoeboxes and attics. These old
newsletters contain a wealth of information on events and individuals,
so we’re asking our readers to dig them out and share them with HKVCA.
Thank You!
Creating, formatting and publishing this newsletter is only possible
due to the interest and effort of our contributors and keen-eyed
editorial staff. Thanks to you all.
Online News
New and Improved
My big news for this issue is our updated websites! Over the years
our web presence has continually expanded thanks to the work of a lot of
people such as developers, researchers, and contributors. I hope that
you’ll take the time to drop in at
hkvca.ca and take a tour of our new look and feel, but most of all I
hope that you find it easier to zero in on your area of interest. My
thanks to those on the team who evaluated the evolution and provided
critical feedback: Lori, Kathie, Anne, Gail, Margaret and Barbara.
We’ve come a long way over the years. You can see a visual
illustration of our progress on our
HKVCA Webs
History page.
Speaking of contributors… Lillian Roesch continues to research a
multitude of sources regarding the members of ‘C’ Force, and she posts
her findings on our
Facebook Group.
Her efforts have spurred others to help out by providing information on
various ‘C’ Force members, and allowed us to flesh out the Individual
Reports. Thank you, Lillian!
Quatre Ans d'Enfer- Four Years of Hell
Sadie McGinn and her project
In late May we received an email from the great-granddaughter of ‘C’
Force member
Robert McGinn. Sadie McGinn has been hard at work on a major family
research project which forms part of her school curriculum. Her many
hours of work have resulted in a fantastic slide presentation which has
morphed into a Heritage Fair project, complete with storyboards. Her
work is showcased on our site.
Pay a
visit and be prepared to be impressed.
Fighting it Out: Canadian Troops at Hong Kong and in Memory
We have a new addition to our Online library! Those of you who have
viewed the video of our last
Virtual Event:
Canadians in the Battle of Hong Kong: Myths and Memories will remember
Brad St. Croix. He has now agreed for us to
feature his thesis on our
site. For now, it’s only available in Portable Document Format
(PDF), but we hope to provide a web-friendly version soon.
Zip..Zip
Work continues in fleshing out our Individual Reports on ‘C’ Force
members. Thanks to Lillian’s diligence and research, plus the help of
others, we are working on providing a valuable addition to these
reports. The information will be in the format of a “zip” file, which is
simply a host file composed of a series of individual smaller files that
are compressed. To get an idea of how this works and its value, visit my
father Charles Trick’s ‘C’ Force Individual Report, and scroll down
to the Additional Information block. Once there, you’ll find a link to a
zip file which, when downloaded and expanded, will reveal a series of
supporting documents. Most computer systems recognize the “zip” format,
but if you find you need to install the application, here is a link to
WinZip.
War Trial Documents
We have been given a
Record of
Trial document composed of 426 pages which contains the testimony of
some members of ‘C’ Force. It is in Portable Document Format (PDF). We
will be working, over the next few months, to link various portions of
it with the specific ‘C’ Force member’s Individual Report.
‘C’ Force Members Date of Birth Announcements
Questions have come in regarding why we no longer celebrate ‘C’ Force
members' dates of birth on our Facebook page. We used to announce these
but we discontinued this practice on January 1, 2023 due to lack of
views, coupled with the effort involved. Facebook members are encouraged
to announce this milestone by posting the details in the group.
Older Than the RCAF - Hormidas Fredette
By: Honorary Colonel Dan Hennessey,
14 Construction
Engineering Squadron
(First printed in
The Aurora Newspaper, 14 Wing, Greenwood, NS - May 15,
2023. Reprinted by permission.)
When I first met Hormidas Fredette,
it was after a call from a friend in 2021 asking if I would put
on my uniform and visit a Second World War veteran in New Minas
who had just turned 104.
New Minas Second World War veteran Hormidas Fredette can
count, in recent years, on a birthday visit from 14 Construction
Engineering Squadron Honorary Colonel Dan Hennessey. The men
have already made plans to mark Fredette’s 107th birthday in
2024.
I jumped at the chance to sit down with this incredible man,
who not only survived the war but was actually a Japanese
prisoner of war for almost four years after the fall of Hong
Kong. We chatted for a long time, and he told me so many stories
about his time as a POW and the terrible treatment and food he
received. I told him I would come back and chat more on his
105th. He said, “It’s a deal!” His sister lived to be 104, so he
was planning to outdo her. I said I would be back, and for him
not to do anything to mess up our plans.
In 2022, I again went back to chat on his 105th birthday, and
found, while he may have aged on paper, he certainly hadn’t in
his ability to tell stories! When I was leaving, I said I would
see him again on his 106th birthday, and he winked and smiled at
me.
May 3, 2023, was my third time visiting this incredible man,
and another opportunity to congratulate him as he turned 106! We
talked more about those days so long ago and how he has probably
out-lived all of those he served with. He said someone had to
stick around to tell their stories.
I had the honour to present Mr. Fredette with a Commander’s
Coin on behalf of 14 Wing Greenwood Commander Colonel Jeff Davis
and Wing Chief Warrant Officer Jonathan Proulx. I also presented
him with the new shoulder patch for 14 Wing, along with a Royal
Canadian Air Force Legacy coin (we laughed when I told him the
RCAF turns 100 next year: his response was that he is older than
the Air Force!).
We both decided we should do this again next year, and we put
May 3, 2024, in our calendars. Sir, I salute you as a true
Canadian hero, and I am looking forward to our next visit.
(For more information, read Hormidas Fredette’s
Individual Report on our ‘C’ Force website.)
Field Report: Dispatches from Hong
Kong
By Jason W. M. Kelly
In the summer of 2021, I had the
opportunity to relocate to Hong Kong with my family. As a member
of the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association (HKVCA), I
consider it my responsibility and privilege to constantly seek
ways to highlight the invaluable contributions of our Canadian
forces, ensuring that their sacrifices in defending Hong Kong
remain remembered and respected.
Therefore, I am eager to serve as an active representative of
the HKVCA here in Hong Kong and relay my stories back to all of
you.
Reopening of Museum
I had the distinct honour of representing
our association at the grand re-opening of the Hong Kong Museum
of Coastal Defence on November 23rd, 2022. After being closed
for four years due to the severe damage caused by Super Typhoon
Mangkhut, the museum is rejuvenated in its historic location at
175 Tung Hei Road, Shau Kei Wan.This reopening marked the
introduction of a new, updated, revitalized permanent exhibit
within the museum's historic redoubt, comprising 11 engaging
galleries. Each gallery provides a window into different
chapters of Hong Kong's coastal defence history, including the
War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the
consequential Battle of Hong Kong.
Museum Staff. Reopening of the Hong Kong Museum of
Coastal Defence
As members of the HKVCA, you'll be
particularly interested in a dedicated gallery that salutes the
significant role Canadians played in the Battle of Hong Kong.
This homage is a testament to the courage and resilience
demonstrated by the Canadian veterans, whom we work diligently
to commemorate, who endured those challenging times.
Resilient Return: Reopening of the Hong Kong Museum of
Coastal Defence
Having had the privilege of experiencing this grand reopening
firsthand, I wholeheartedly encourage my fellow HKVCA members to
visit this historic site when you are in Hong Kong. The museum
offers insight into Hong Kong’s history and heritage. It
symbolizes international solidarity and resilience, reminding us
in part of Canadians’ profound impact in Hong Kong.
Canadian Commemoration Ceremony
I was honoured to represent our
association at the deeply moving Canadian Commemoration Ceremony
at the Sai Wan War Cemetery on December 4th, 2022.
Salute to Valour: The 75th Canadian Commemoration Ceremony at
Sai Wan War Cemetery
This solemn ceremony served as a tribute to the 1,975 heroic
Canadians who took part in the Battle of Hong Kong and also as a
memorial for the 550 brave souls who tragically lost their lives
in battle or captivity. These events are a testament to these
soldiers' incredible bravery and resilience.
The December 4th commemoration was of notable significance,
as it marked the 75th such event since the initiation of this
annual tribute back in 1947. These ceremonies over the decades
have served as enduring reminders of the Canadian contribution
towards the high price of peace.
As part of my role representing the HKVCA, I had the solemn
responsibility of laying a wreath bearing our organization’s
name during the service. This act symbolized our continuous
dedication to honouring Canadians’ remarkable contributions to
the Battle of Hong Kong and remembering those brave Canadians
who fought on the frontline.
Ancestor’s Day
I had the unique opportunity to
attend the Purkha Divas, or Ancestor’s Day, ceremony on April
5th, 2023. This significant event, held alongside the Ching Ming
Festival, honours the service and sacrifice of the Gurkha who
were stationed here in Hong Kong.
Unity in Remembrance: The Purkha Divas 2023 Ceremony in Hong Kong
While the Gurkhas did not participate in the Battle of Hong
Kong, their vital role in border protection and as the main
defence force under the British from 1948 to 1997 is
well-recognized. The Gurkhas' contributions have earned them a
prominent place in the Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence,
alongside Canadians and other valiant defenders of Hong Kong.
The annual Purkha Divas event occurs at the Gurkha Cemetery
within the former Cassino Lines Military Camp (now used by the
PLA and known as the San Tin Barracks), a place of rest, similar
to the Sai Wan War Cemetery, that the Commonwealth War Graves
Commission works to maintain. This solemn ceremony pays homage
to the Gurkhas who served Hong Kong, with approximately 700
marked graves serving as a silent testament to their sacrifice.
Though my participation in the ceremony was unofficial, I
proudly donned my HKVCA blazer and conveyed our association's
deep respect for these brave souls. I aspire to attend next
year's event in an official capacity, laying a wreath on behalf
of the HKVCA to honour these veterans. While their service
period differs from that of the Canadians we commemorate, their
dedication and bravery in defending Hong Kong equally deserve
remembrance.
Unity in Remembrance: The Purkha Divas 2023 Ceremony in Hong
Kong
The 78th Anniversary of the end of war in the Pacific
Ian
Englehart
The Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association will be hosting
a commemorative ceremony on August 12, 2023 at 11:00 am, to honour
the Veterans of the Defense of Hong Kong and to mark the 78th year
of Victory over Japan at the end of the Second World War.
The ceremony will be held at the Hong Kong Veterans Memorial Wall
located at the corner of Sussex Dr. and King Edward Ave, Ottawa.
Free parking is available at the National Research Council of Canada
parking lot across the street.
If you would like to lay a family wreath, please let Ian
Englehart know at
habs1993@rogers.com by August 7th 2023 and provide the name of
the veteran for whom you are laying a wreath, as well as your name,
so we can announce it during the family wreath laying portion of the
ceremony.
After the ceremony, we will be going to the Lord Elgin Hotel, 100
Elgin Street, Grill 41 for lunch. Hopefully, you can join us.
Please email Ian Englehart at habs1993@rogers.com to confirm
your attendance for lunch. The closest underground parking is at
Ottawa City Hall 110 Laurier Ave. W. Weekends: 6 am to 6 pm:
$1.00 per hour/$2.00 max. There is also underground parking 3 blocks
away at the World Exchange Plaza, 45 O'Connor Street, $8 on
weekends.
Our Visit to Botwood, NL
Gail
Angel
In September 2022, I travelled to Newfoundland for a 2 week
vacation with my husband Reg, my sister Jo-Anne Scaffidi, and my
father Derrill Henderson. On our must-do list were visits to
Botwood and Gander.
Why Botwood? My grandfather,
Stewart Henderson, was in the Royal Rifles HQ company,
Pioneer Platoon. In November 1939, HQ company was sent to
Botwood. Their job was to construct all the necessary buildings
to add sufficient capacity to the existing base. Job done, they
went on to Gander to help with the construction of the airport.
Once the infrastructure was in place, Company A and D joined
them, splitting time between Botwood and Gander on an
alternating schedule. Company B and C were the last to arrive in
NL and were only stationed in Gander. The RRC left NL in August
1941.
Their orders were to guard Botwood and Gander against
possible enemy attack. Botwood is at the head of the Bay of
Exploits about 20 miles from the open sea. In Botwood, they had
3 jobs: harbour security, inspection of all incoming vessels,
and protection of the A.N.D. railway, used to convey supplies
from Canada to the forces in Newfoundland. When you think about
it, it is an interesting situation. At that time, Newfoundland
was a country; Canadians who served in NL were given the Defense
of Canada Medal. Phil Doddridge wrote about this time in his
personal account “Memories Uninvited” on the HKVCA website.
https://www.hkvca.ca/memoriesuninvited/Chapter%203.php
Now you know why we wanted to visit the Botwood Heritage
Museum and the Botwood Flying Boat Museum. We were quite
disappointed to learn that they were closed as the tourist
season ended with Labour Day weekend; we were 10 days too late!
Trying to stay cheerful, we shrugged our shoulders and headed to
lunch at the Island Breezes Cafe.
Derrill, Lisa, Gail and Jo-Anne at the entrance to the
museum. Photo: Reg Angel
In the cafe, Jo-Anne started chatting with a lady and
explained how we had hoped to visit the Heritage Center, along
with a little bit of our family connection. That started a
series of events. We were given a phone number and told to ask
for Steve. Steve gave us a different number, which led to Lisa
Hemeon saying: “Stay right there, I’ll be there in 10 minutes.”
Mural on the side of the museum. Photo: Reg Angel
Botwood was a town long before Gander existed, yet very
small. At the start of WWII, the Botwood area had a population
of 1000. To learn more about this interesting town, I highly
recommend that you watch the CBC’s Still Standing episode about
Botwood.
Other things I learned:
- Gander (Pal) was born in Botwood
- The first act of war in North America happened in Botwood
when a German freighter was docked on the day war was declared,
and the crew were taken as POWs and sent to St. John’s.
- With each ship that docked, it was common for one or two of
the crew to be taken as a POW because they weren’t allowed in
the country of Newfoundland.
- During surveillance, a German submarine was spotted in the
Bay of Exploits, and was the target of the first shot fired by
RRC outside of training.
So, back to our story. Lisa unlocked the Museum and spent
over an hour with us. Then she called another fellow, the
volunteer museum guide, to come give us a proper tour of the
museum and the Heritage Center. He spent hours with us.
Botwood has a very impressive photo archive. If you have more
information about any of these, please comment on the Botwood
Heritage Facebook page, and share it with us on our Facebook
page also.
1940 tents
Barracks on
airbase
July 1941 aerial
Barracks under
construction
Royal Rifles posing
on engine 12
There are a few photos on the HKVCA website from this time.
If anyone has others to contribute, we’d love to have them!
William Tuppert, 1940
William Tuppert on parade
Platoon No. 3, HQ Company Sergeant supervising handling of 2
inch mortar
Memorial Wall - Adding a QR code
Hong Kong Memorial Wall, Ottawa. Photo: HKVCA Image Gallery
If you have ever visited the Hong Kong Veterans Memorial Wall in
Ottawa, you’ll know that the only information is a plaque that was
written by Parks Canada. It was created for an installation that was
planned in Hong Kong, but those plans changed. The Memorial Wall
project was in progress, so Parks Canada (courtesy of the late Ian
Doull) offered it to the HKVCA.
We’ve started exploring the idea of installing a QR code on site
so that visitors can learn more about the monument. They have been
around for many years, and lately have been used in more places. A
QR code is a graphical representation of a web address, called a
URL. For example, this image will direct you to www.hkvca.ca, the HKVCA Home page.
QR Code. Screenshot by Gail Angel
If you hold the camera of your smart device (smartphone) over the image, the link displayed should show
"hkvca.ca".
The idea is that by posting a QR code on the site, visitors can
scan the image with their smartphone and be brought to information
that the HKVCA controls.
As the project lead, with assistance from Derrill Henderson, I
have begun conversations with Heritage Canada to identify what is
required and what costs we should expect. Our first meeting was full
of good information, and they have forwarded several other
resources. They will also assist in getting the necessary approvals
efficiently.
Stay tuned for more updates as the project progresses.
HKVCA Indigenous Project Update
Pamela Heinrichs
In the last six months or so we have had much behind-the-scenes
work going on with respect to the Indigenous Veterans Project. As a
result of further research we now have 83 Indigenous members of ‘C’
Force identified and added to the Indigenous Veterans page.
As mentioned in the President’s Message, we have secured funding
for our Project - this is very exciting news and we are looking
forward to moving ahead with our research!
As always, if you have information to share about an Indigenous
‘C’ Force member known to you, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Wishing everyone a wonderful summer and looking forward to moving
ahead on this project!
Prairie Prose
Carol Hadley
Greetings to HKVCA members.
Well we finally have some summer weather in Manitoba and
hopefully across this wonderful country. Enjoy and
rejuvenate as you enjoy your time with family and friends.
We were saddened to hear of the passing of George
MacDonell from Ontario. He was an interesting man and continued
to give back to our country after his service. We will
remember him.
With his passing, the “Sunset Clause” has come into effect
and there will be more information on this elsewhere. This
is a sad time to see the veterans’ association dissolve.
Thankfully the veterans encouraged the “kids” and family/friends
to form the HKVCA to continue their legacy.
God bless them all.
We had a very informative Annual General Meeting. It's
always interesting to meet with the Board and other members,
however it would be nicer in person. Many of the items
will be included in this newsletter.
Prairie Region is back to monthly meetings at Smitty’s
Restaurant on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m.
We are pleased to have Barry Mitchell back as he recovers from a
broken arm/shoulder. Thank you to Kathie Carlson who
communicates with area reps in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Project Update
Prairie Region has some ongoing projects like:
- Dedicating the Dryden ON plaque on June 20
- Creating a banner dedicated to the Japanese POW camps
- A banner showing places with dedications to the HKV
- We have discussed an Indigenous/Metis banner as this
project progresses - might be a National project.
- Lawn Signs - Judy Preston in Russell, MB is coordinating
the project. She can be reached by email - prestons@mymts.net
and the cost can be sent to her by e-transfer or cheque as
the postage and handling charge will need to be added.
- We continue to work with Last Post Fund to identify
unmarked or damaged HKV graves.
- Barry Mitchell is working with Pr Paul Lampman on
duplicating the Colours at St. Lukes Church.
- Initiating plans for VJ Day on Saturday, August 19. We
will have a brief service in the Field of Honour, wreath
laying, then adjourn to Neil Bardal Centre for a Reception. More information to come.
- Stephanie Mitchell is working with Lori Smith on the HK
grave markers project. More information to come.
- Requesting permission to have the Hong Kong Veterans
flag fly at the Cenotaph in Winnipeg for the months of
August and December.
- Kathie Carlson has submitted a proposal to the Board for
improving the War Museum display. I believe Mike Babin
is working on something. I know we all would like to
see more information on this.
Thank you to Stan Lopata and Alex Taylor for manning our
display at the Red River Heritage Fair in May. Well done.
Several members in Alberta attended the play “Sakamoto” in
Calgary. Thank you to Norma Fuchs for sending me the
playbill. If anyone hears of the play showing elsewhere
please let us know.
We were saddened to learn of our members' passing and extend
our sincere condolences to the families. The list will be
in another part of the newsletter and we thank the family
members for keeping us informed.
Marg Auld, wife of George Auld H6711, WG HK vet passed on May
4, 2023. Son Greg Auld, HKVCA member, notified us of her
passing.
We wish you all a wonderful summer and hope you stay in touch
with what you are doing. Take care.
GoGod Bless!
Ontario Offerings
Shelagh Purcell
Celebrating 100 years of birthdays on March 27th was a
wonderful occasion for Oda Barlow. She was happy to report that
more than 100 people gathered at the Royal Hotel in Picton, ON.
, happy to be able to see family and friends again. Good food
and music added to the afternoon. Oda is living in Picton now
with family close by. (Edwin Barlow, RCASC)
Gloria Fortune (Herbert Fortune, WG) has good and bad days
with some health issues at 94 years. Daughter Vicky says she
still looks for the newsletter and memories of the Hong Kong
picnics come up - including the sailor hats with Hong Kong
written on them.
Vicky had watched the program "Myths", part of the HKVCA
series, and was upset to hear that the display at the War Museum
in Ottawa was minimal and dated. Discussions have started to put
a committee together to see if changes can be made.
Irene Firlotte (Lawrence Firlotte, RRC) is doing well, having
turned 97. Daughter Susan said she has some health issues but
still likes to keep in touch.
Donna Drimmie (Victor Oliver Fehr, RRC) spoke about her
father leaving Canada with the Winnipeg Grenadiers and halfway
to Hong Kong being transferred to the Royal Rifles. He was also
two weeks later than the Canadians leaving Hong Kong.
Barry Fair (Grey Fair, RRC) always provides a little more
history of the time after the RRC came home to Canada. There are
so many tales still to be told.
Susan Ewing (Kenneth Ewing, RRC) still deals with the results
of her hip operation, she looks forward to weekend family visits
with the nicer weather now coming.
Mavis Martin (John Martin, RRC) enjoys her new residence in
Kemptville. She hopes to have Joanne, whose father was in Hong
Kong, get together with Mavis' family and perhaps share some
pictures and stories.
Jim Hurd (Edmund Lionel Hurd, RRC) has been following reports
of the exhibition of Bury, Quebec’s military history. Held March
25 & 26, it traced the era of 1866 to the present with displays
at the Bury Armory, organized by the Bury Historical and
Heritage Society. Canada’s involvement in Hong Kong was
included.
Grace Thornton (Howard Thornton, WG) spoke about coming to
Canada from Scotland and the difference here with no rations and
an easier life. It's interesting to remember those earlier days.
Barbara Cunningham Drew (Winston Cunningham, CDC) is doing
fine. When she heard about the comments on the War Museum
display, she said her daughter had made similar comments.
Barbara said to keep her informed if a committee is formed.
Jean Killoran (John Killoran, RRC) wishes she had more energy
but reminds me that she's 95 years old. No regrets though, she
says she had a good husband and a good life.
What’s In a Name?
by Fred Edmund Hurd, son of Captain “Edmund” Lionel Hurd RRC
Is there significance in a name or date of birth?
Many of those who enlisted in the armed forces in both world
wars did not always articulate their names correctly or their
names were simply recorded incorrectly. Some even lied about
their age to volunteer or even went to another town to enlist
where they were unknown. Their correct names and birth dates are
important for domestic reasons but also for historical records.
Hong Kong veteran Captain “Edmund” Lionel Hurd RRC was the
tenth Edmund descendant from a family of men and women who over
nine generations had experienced a long history of upheaval and
survival. There is an unbroken line of Edmund Heard/Hurd’s
dating back to the first inhabitants in the New England Colonies
in 1636. Hong Kong veteran, Edmund Lionel Hurd RRC, had
three generations of ancestors who would serve in the Military
for their new country prior to Canada’s designation as a country
in 1867.
Apologies needed yet again!
By Lori Atkinson Smith
I have always felt names and spelling of names is very
important. December 2022 and March 2023 HKVCA newsletters noted
Captain “Edmund” Lionel Hurd, RRC first as Edwin. And then
Edward. My sincerest apologies.
Quebec Report
Lucette
Mailloux Muir
Greetings everyone from Quebec Region.
The executive members continue to hold their meetings,
unfortunately still on Zoom at this time. Things are still
on the quiet side.
We thank our membership for their continued support with
their donations and by renewing their membership.
On May 4, 2023 an interment of ashes ceremony was held for
Philip Doddridge in New Richmond, QC. A graveside ceremony
took place led by his comrades of the Royal Canadian Legion, Br.
172 of Cascapedia St-Jules/New Richmond. It was a very
emotional ceremony on a cold, windy and cloudy day.
Prayers were read. There was a beautiful song, Poppy Drop by
all attendees, eulogies and the ceremony closed with the
“Tobacco Ceremony”.
Derrill Henderson, National Secretary of the HKVA, his
daughter Jo-Anne, Ontario HKVCA member and yours truly Lucette
Mailloux Muir, Director of the HKVCA, QC Region were in
attendance as well as family, veterans and many friends.
Later many gathered for a light lunch and sharing of memories,
anecdotes of times spent with Phil through the years, ending
with “À la prochaine” as he very often closed his presentations
or reports.
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM !
With summer here we wish you all an enjoyable and safe
summer.
Summer Special Sale
Lapel Pin..................................................$5.00
License Plate Holder (front plate)....................$5.00
Gravestone Marker.....................................$75.00
Winnipeg Grenadier
Tie...............................$20.00
Flag.....................................................$100.00
WG Honour Roll - Colour - (ready to frame).......$20.00
DVD - Slaves of the Rising Sun.........................$10.00
Books
Dark Side of the Sun.....................................$20.00
‘C’ Force—Decorations, Medals, Awards.............$20.00
One Soldier’s Story......................................$20.00
No Reason
Why....................$20.00
Beyond the Call..............$20.00
To order, send cheque to HKVCA, P.O. Box 381, Winnipeg MB R3C 2H6
OR
Interac e-transfer to hkvca.pr@gmail.com
Membership Report
Our membership figures as of May 2023
are available.
Membership Up to Date?
Take a moment to make sure that you’re a paid-up member of
HKVCA. Not sure? Contact us
via email or at the address below. Our membership form plus a
list of membership reps is published on the last page of this
newsletter for your convenience, or take the easy route and
visit our online
Membership page to pay by e-transfer.
Announcements
RCMI Military History Night
The HKVCA is proud to partner once again with the Royal
Canadian Military Institute in Toronto for one of the RCMI’s
Military History Night events. The featured speaker will be Jon
Reid, son of Capt John Reid, one of the Canadian doctors who
cared for ‘C’ Force soldiers in Hong Kong and Japan.
The event will be held on Wednesday, June 14 at the RCMI, 426
University Ave, Toronto. It will begin at 7 pm, and all HKVCA
members and guests are invited to attend. An email with further
information will be sent around the beginning of June.
Want a Printed Copy of This Newsletter?
You have two choices:
- You can print a copy of this newsletter right from your browser
(right-click and select "Print" in most browsers, or select from the menu).
You may find that there are some layout issues, especially with
photos.
- You can print an exact
copy of the PDF version that was mailed out.
Note: there may be items in the online copy of the newsletter that
are not included in the PDF version.
