In 2015, a photographer in Hong Kong discovered a diary from 1944 belonging to Lam Ping-yu, a Chinese naval officer who participated in the D-Day landings at Normandy, a little-known aspect of World War II history. The diary challenges the assumption that Chinese soldiers only fought in the Pacific theater. Lam, born in Indonesia, joined the Chinese navy and was eventually sent for training in Britain after the U.S. entered the war. He and his colleagues supported the Allied troops at Normandy and narrowly avoided German torpedoes. After the war, Lam helped deliver supplies to Hong Kong, which had been under Japanese occupation, before settling in Brazil.
Lam’s diary sheds light on the friendship between East and West during the war and the unique experience of Chinese naval officers in World War II. The exhibition in Hong Kong showcases this history, highlighting the city’s relevance on the international stage. The exhibition aims to inspire visitors, including those facing adversity in Hong Kong’s current economic and political climate. This historical discovery reflects the importance of preserving and understanding the lesser-known chapters of World War II and the individual experiences of those who participated. Lam’s life story, from naval officer to merchant seaman to settling in Brazil, adds a personal touch to the broader historical narrative. The exhibition serves as a reminder of Hong Kong’s historical significance and its continuing relevance in global contexts.
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