Lost and Found in Hong Kong: The Unsung Chinese Heroes at D-Day

As we mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War, we invite you to discover the recently unearthed history of a select group of 24 Chinese naval officers who took part in the D-Day Landings and Operation Dragoon in the liberation of Southern France. At the upcoming exhibition Lost and Found in Hong Kong: The Unsung Chinese Heroes at D-Day, stories, objects, and multimedia displays walk us through this fascinating area of military history.

In 2015, a group of history enthusiasts accidentally stumbled upon a diary in a soon-to-be demolished residential building in Hong Kong. The diary belonged to Lam Ping-yu, who was amongst the group of officers sent to Britain for training during World War II. As their first mission in Europe, many took part in the D-Day Landings and Operation Dragoon in the liberation of Southern France.

Lam Ping-yu’s diary appears to be the only known primary source on Chinese participation in D-Day. It reveals numerous first-hand stories about the realities of war, countless depictions of excitement, frustration, envy, and even romance! Moreover, Hong Kong features in Lam’s voyage. In 1945, he took part in Operation Armour, an operation devised by the British government to alleviate Hong Kong’s dire situation following Japanese occupation. His writings provide us with a glimpse into the city’s post-war recovery.

The exhibition debuted in 2024, receiving international attention and support. Following that, the curatorial team has achieved further research breakthroughs, gathering more first-hand information and exhibits. Set for a relaunch this year, the exhibition will present this little-known episode of history in greater depth.