YORKTON – At a time when Canada seems under siege from trading partners, in particular the tariff barrage from US president Donald Trump, it is perhaps wise to pause to remember that this country has faced challenges through the years and has come out of such hardships a generally better country.
That came into focus with a couple of things taking place in the city the last few days.
The first was the unveiling of a new plaque to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served in Hong Kong during the Second World War dedicated Sunday by the General Alexander Ross Branch No. 77 of the Royal Canadian Legion in Yorkton.
The sacrifice of Canadians in an attempt to defend the freedom of Hong Kong was significant, and speaks to how this country recognized the importance of what was happening in the world at that point. Hitler’s Germany and it’s allies were a threat to freedom, and that was something that couldn’t be allowed. It is something we need to remember today in the face of Trump’s trade war, and rumblings around the world like the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Certainly in Hong Kong it was a battle that cost Canadians but one we need to still be proud of.
“In the Second World War, Canadian soldiers first engaged in battle while defending the British Crown Colony of Hong Kong against a Japanese attack in December of ’41,” explained Legion president Brittany Johnson. “The Canadians at Hong Kong fought against overwhelming odds and displayed the courage of seasoned veterans, though most had limited military training. They had virtually no chance of victory, but refused to surrender until they were overrun by the enemy. Those who survived the battle became prisoners of war (POWs) and many endured torture and starvation by their Japanese captors.”
The Canadian contingent was comprised of 1,975 soldiers. Approximately 290 Canadian soldiers were killed in battle and, while in captivity, approximately 264 more died as POWs, for a total death toll of 554. In addition, almost 500 Canadians were wounded.
Their sacrifice was great and we should remember them.
Also tied to the war was a request which came to Yorkton Council at its most recent regular meeting.
Earlier this year City Administration received a request from Yorkton Aircraft Service to designate their property, Hangar #2 at the Yorkton Airport, as a municipal heritage property, explained Taylor Morrison, Director of Recreation & Community Services with the city.
The building is the last remaining hangar from the site built by the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan in 1940-1941. There were many flight schools built by BCATP in the ‘40’s but there are not many hangars still standing.
The contribution of such facilities to the war effort can never be underestimated.
In a way the hangar stands in testament to Canada’s resolve to defend not just our borders, but the freedom of the broader world. Again an effort that shows the mettle of this nation.
So trade wars may rage, and cracks in freedoms can be seen in Ukraine, the Middle East, even the US under Trump, but we’ve always faced challenges head-on in the past and endured, and we will again.
The battlefield of trade is different of course but we have a proud past in Canada that tells us we are up for whatever comes.
