In October 1941, Japan was threatening war, and Hong Kong was facing a major threat. To strengthen the defences of Hong Kong, Canada sent a contingent designated Force ‘C’, including 2 battalions, the Winnipeg Grenadiers and the Royal Rifles of Canada.
1,975 troops of all ranks sailed aboard TSS Awatea and HMCS Prince Robert from Vancouver on 27th October 1941 and made brief stops in Honolulu, Hawaii and Manila, Philippines, reaching Hong Kong on 16th November.
When the Japanese forces invaded Hong Kong on 8th December 1941, the Allied forces bravely fought to defend the colony but were forced to surrender on 25th December.
Following a brief introduction, this presentation showed the postal history of ‘C’ Force in Hong Kong, which included:
- as “Y” Force in Jamaica (forerunner)
- on the way to Hong Kong
- arrival in Hong Kong
- detained mail
- returned mail
- Prisoner of War mail in Hong Kong and Japan.
Dr Sam G Ling Chiu FRPSC, FRPSL organised and illustrated the topic from a Social Philately approach, with the inclusion of relevant ephemera and information about the sender/receiver of the postal history items.
This event was held live via Zoom. Click here to view the video recording of the event. A PDF version of the presentation slides can be viewed here.