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The only known primary source on Chinese participation in the Normandy Landings
“Lost and Found in Hong Kong: The Unsung Chinese Heroes at D-Day” exhibition at CUHK
Following its first appearance in Hong Kong at the Fringe Club from 10 to 19 September, the exhibition “Lost and Found in Hong Kong: The Unsung Chinese Heroes at D-Day” now proceeds to The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Library till 25 December. An opening ceremony was held on 27 September on CUHK campus. Officiating guests included Professor Rocky S. Tuan, Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK; Ms Michelle Li, Permanent Secretary for Education; Mr Benjamin Meunier, CUHK’s University Librarian; Mr Angus Hui and Mr John Mak, Co-Curators from the Urban Studies Institute (USI).
The exhibition showcases the diary and family letters of Lam Ping-yu, a Chinese naval officer who served on British battleship HMS Ramillies in the Normandy Landings on 6 June 1944 (D-Day) in World War II. Discovered in 2015 in an old Hong Kong tenement building marked for demolition, Lam’s 80-page diary showcases his experiences and training in Britain alongside 23 fellow Chinese naval officers. Lam’s first-hand account is the only known primary source on Chinese participation at D-Day.
Co-Curators John Mak and Angus Hui have conducted extensive research across Asia and Europe to trace Lam’s journey, corroborating his accounts with various historical sources. Their findings were further validated by Professor Huang Shansong, a retired historian from Hangzhou Normal University, whose father served alongside Lam in the Liberation of France.
CUHK Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Rocky S. Tuan said: “This thematic exhibition invites us to explore an often-overlooked narrative of D-Day, a pivotal moment that shaped the conclusion of World War II. It celebrates the spirit of unity and resilience among the Allied nations during this historical moment of global crisis. This enduring spirit of international collaboration is just as essential today as we tackle the global challenges of the 21st Century. I sincerely believe that the essence of this meaningful exhibition resonates deeply with the important founding mission and responsibility of CUHK entrusted in us – ‘To Combine Tradition with Modernity, and to Bring Together China and the West’.”
“This exhibition is not just a tribute to Lam Ping-yu and his fellow officers, but also a celebration of the enduring human spirit. It is an illustration of the power of individual stories to illuminate the broader tapestry of history,” Mr Benjamin Meunier said, “As you explore the exhibits, I encourage you to reflect on the bravery, resilience, and humanity that shine through Lam Ping-yu’s words. Let us remember and celebrate the courage of those who fought for freedom and for a lasting peace. May their stories inspire us to make a difference and strive for a better future.”
“This exhibition demonstrates how empowering individuals can yield captivating narratives that foster deep connections between diverse groups, enriching the cultural fabric of our city,” Mr Mak said, “The international interest in our story epitomises our motto of Hong Kong Sees the World, the World Sees Hong Kong. Even though Hong Kong may not always be the protagonist, the city has always held a front row seat in bearing witness to world history.”
“Lam’s story is a profoundly human story, not necessarily one that can shift military understandings of the World War II or D-Day, but gives us insight into the inner workings of a person who may very well have the same thoughts as us when put into a similar situation,” Mr Hui said, “Stories like his deserve to be exhibited because they are unifying stories between groups and people that could never come into contact.”
Exhibition details
Date: 23 September – 25 December 2024
Venue: The Chinese University of Hong Kong Library
Opening time: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Fee: Free admission
Free shuttle bus service
Date: 5-6 October, 12-13 October
Time: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, departing every half-hour
Route: from the University Entrance (MTR University Station, Exit A) to the University Library (one-way only)
After exhibiting at CUHK, future presentations are planned in the United Kingdom and France in 2025.
For high-res pictures, please visit this Google Drive link:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1_zyCbxdOs-QC7nTNHqhT3Vh-Nv3Ie-fG?usp=sharing
Poster for the exhibition “Lost and Found in Hong Kong: The Unsung Chinese Heroes at D-Day”
CUHK hosts an opening ceremomy for the exhibition “Lost and Found in Hong Kong: The Unsung Chinese Heroes at D-Day”.
CUHK's Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Rocky S. Tuan gives a speech.
CUHK’s University Librarian Mr Benjamin Meunier gives a speech.
Co-Curator Mr Angus Hui gives a speech.
Co-Curator Mr John Mak gives a speech.
Professor Rocky S. Tuan and Ms Michelle Li, Permanent Secretary for Education, visit the exhibition.
