Winnipeg veterans from World War II receive honours from Chinese government

WINNIPEG – More than 74 years after fighting in World War II, three Winnipeg veterans are being honoured.

George Peterson, Harry Hawrychuk and George Nobiss were all captured in the battle of Hong Kong.

The soldiers were taken in 1941. On Dec. 25 that same year, Britain surrendered the colony of Hong Kong to the Japanese and ordered all allied military to stop fighting.

PHOTO GALLERY: Manitoba families accepting awards for veterans who fought in  World War II

The Chinese government recognized the former Winnipeg Grenadiers by presenting their families with the Chinese Peace Certificate and Medal over the weekend.

The certificate read, “For your outstanding and dedicated services in the (Asia) Theatre during World World II, fighting against the Japanese invaders, protecting peace and promoting friendship between the people of Canada and China.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: The certificate read, "For your outstanding and dedicated services in the (Asia) Theatre during World World II<i>, </i>fighting against the Japanese invaders, protecting peace and promoting friendship between the people of Canada and China."

The veterans fought alongside soldiers from other Canadian units and soldiers from Britain and other Allied countries during the war.