To honour surviving veteran soldiers, veteran heroes, resistance commanders or their descendants in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government held the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression Commemorative Medal Presentation Ceremony at Government House today.

During the ceremony, the veterans were presented with commemorative medals awarded by the country, with a view to promoting the spirit of resistance and deepening society’s awareness in history and patriotic sentiment.

Attendees of the ceremony, including veterans and their families, said it was an honour to receive the medals. The veterans noted that the medals symbolised the nation’s profound respect for their contributions.

Chief Executive John Lee said in his speech that Hong Kong people united with compatriots in the motherland and devoted themselves to the frontline of the resistance war to defend the homeland, demonstrating a firm and unyielding patriotic spirit.

“Only by knowing our history and loving our country, could the flame of patriotism be passed on. Only by remembering history can we create the future.

“To commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the War of Resistance, the Hong Kong SAR Government is uniting all sectors to hold a series of activities, enabling all citizens of Hong Kong, especially the younger generation, to strengthen and cultivate their unyielding patriotism and profound love for the nation,” Mr Lee added.