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In this gripping episode of The Rum Ration, Colin and Rejoy take listeners to the Pacific Theatre of World War II, focusing on the harrowing Battle of Hong Kong in December 1941. It was the first major land combat for Canadian troops in the Second World War—and a brutal introduction. Tasked with defending the British Crown Colony, nearly 2,000 Canadians, including the Royal Rifles of Canada and the Winnipeg Grenadiers, faced overwhelming Japanese forces in a battle marked by fierce resistance, devastating losses, and remarkable acts of courage.
Listeners will hear the tragic yet inspiring stories of Brigadier J.K. Lawson, who died “going outside to fight it out,” and Company Sergeant Major John Osborn, who sacrificed himself by throwing his body on a grenade—earning a posthumous Victoria Cross. The episode also honours the lesser-known heroes: two Canadian nurses, a loyal Newfoundland dog named Gander, and the many POWs who endured years of abuse, starvation, and forced labour.
More than 550 Canadians lost their lives, with many more forever scarred by the battle and its aftermath. Tune in to explore this sobering chapter of Canadian military history—and why it still matters today.
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Cheers to history! 🥂
