A diary discovered in a Hong Kong apartment building scheduled for demolition in 2015 shed light on Chinese naval officers’ involvement in the D-Day landings at Normandy during World War II. The diary belonged to Lam Ping-yu, a patriotic Chinese naval officer who trained in Britain before participating in the D-Day operations. The diary detailed his excitement and experiences during the mission, highlighting the strong friendship between East and West during the war.
After the war, Lam and his fellow Chinese officers were ordered to the Pacific theater, only to find that Japan had surrendered. Lam settled in Hong Kong and later Brazil, leaving behind the diary that documented his wartime experiences. The diary was discovered by a photographer and shared online, leading to an exhibition in Hong Kong showcasing the story of Lam and his fellow Chinese naval officers.
The exhibition serves as a reminder of Hong Kong’s historical significance and resilience, especially amidst the city’s current challenges, including economic slowdown and government crackdowns on dissent. Visitors to the exhibition found it inspiring, emphasizing the importance of facing adversity with courage and resilience. The story of Lam Ping-yu and his colleagues demonstrates the international relevance of Hong Kong and its unique ability to uncover hidden pieces of history.
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