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Impressions of Hong Kong

Impressions of Hong Kong

Mr. Castonguay describes his impressions of Hong Kong. He was happy to finally see the land he had learned about in school and was impressed by the atmosphere which was so different from his home.

Japanese Attack

Japanese Attack

Mr. Castonguay describes the beginning of the attack on Hong Kong. Because he was working on the switchboard, he was able to hear about the impending attack.

Defence of Hong Kong

Defence of Hong Kong

Mr. Castonguay describes why it was important to defend Hong Kong. The men felt, even after the war, that they were sacrificed by being stationed in Hong Kong. They were aware of how important it was to hold the enemy back for those critical two weeks.

Treatment of Medical Staff

Treatment of Medical Staff

Mr. Castonguay describes the cruel treatment that some of the medical staff received after their capture.

Conditions at North Point, a POW Camp

Conditions at North Point, a POW Camp

Mr. Castonguay describes conditions at North Point, a Japanese Prisoner of War Camp. They were crowded together, and there were a lot of insects and bugs. The little food they were given was moldy and rancid. They contracted diseases from the terrible conditions and lack of food.

Life in a Prisoner of War Camp

Life in a Prisoner of War Camp

Mr. Castonguay describes life in the POW camp and the working conditions they encountered.

Work as a POW

Work as a POW

Mr. Castonguay describes life in the POW camp, the camp guards and interpreters that prisoners encountered.

Japan and working in the Coal Mines

Japan and working in the Coal Mines

Mr. Castonguay recalls how the prisoners were sent to Japan by boat or train to a coal mine where they worked in dangerous conditions.

Hope Returns and Freedom

Hope Returns and Freedom

Mr. Castonguay recalls fearing that the Japanese would kill the POW's should Japan be invaded. Meanwhile, they could see the Americans bombing a nearby city every night which gave them hope that they would soon be saved.

Japanese Labour Camp Commandants

Japanese Labour Camp Commandants

Mr. Castonguay recalls the difference in temperament between his two different camp commandants. The first was very difficult and violent, but the second was much better.

POW End of War Celebration

POW End of War Celebration

Mr. Castonguay remembers eating again after the Americans dropped food for them. He then describes going on a quest for beer for himself and the other POWs in the camp after the war had ended.

Leaving Japan

Leaving Japan

Mr. Castonguay recalls leaving Japan in poor condition after being released, and his joy at finally being clean, fed and having a bed to sleep in.

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