6 December 2009 Hong Kong
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today participated in the annual commemorative service at Hong Kong's Sai Wan War Cemetery, honouring the memory of the Canadian soldiers who defended the territory during the Second World War.
“Today, we acknowledge our eternal debt to those who have served our country,” said the Prime Minister. “We are also reminded of the gratitude we owe to those who continue to defend our values in Afghanistan and elsewhere around the world.”
Against overwhelming odds, Canadians, along with troops from Hong Kong, the United Kingdom and India, defended the territory against the Japanese invaders for 17 days, finally surrendering on Christmas Day, 1941. The cost was high, with 290 Canadians killed and 493 wounded. More than 550 Canadians who fought in Hong Kong died in the campaign or in captivity.
“Canada is a country that has always stood up when the cause was just. A country that has never flinched when facing a foe and that has never wavered in its defence of freedom, democracy and justice,” added the Prime Minister. “It is the men and women of the Canadian Forces who defend our way of life and keep Canada, the True North Strong and Free.”
The ceremony at the Sai Wan War Cemetery was also attended by Patricia Osborn, daughter of Company Sergeant Major John Osborn, a Canadian hero who died in combat in Hong Kong. He received a posthumous Victoria Cross for his actions in protecting his fellow troops – Canada's first in World War II.
