HKVCA Commemorative Plaque Program
Honouring Canada’s Defenders of Hong Kong
The Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association (HKVCA) offers commemorative plaques for installation in publicly accessible indoor venues across Canada. These plaques honour the 1,976 Canadian soldiers who fought in the Defence of Hong Kong against the Japanese Imperial Army in December 1941 and help ensure this important chapter of Canada’s military history is remembered and understood.
About the Plaques
Each plaque features historical text and graphics depicting the Battle (Defence) of Hong Kong. Plaques are available in:
- Vertical (portrait) or horizontal (landscape) formats
- English or French versions
Plaques are intended for permanent indoor display in high-visibility locations such as lobbies, entranceways, or common areas.
Educational Mission and Venue Selection
Education is central to the HKVCA’s mission. For that reason, plaques are installed only in venues that are open and accessible to the public.
Suitable venues include:
- Royal Canadian Legion branches
- Community centres
- Museums and interpretive centres
- Retirement homes
- Sports centres with memorial significance
- High schools
How To Request a Plaque
- Contact plaques@hkvca.ca
- Indicate the preferred plaque orientation (vertical or horizontal)
- Indicate the preferred language French or English
- Advise the proposed installation date
Plaques are provided free of charge to qualifying organizations. Each plaque is supplied on hard board and approximately 18” by 44”. Individuals may also purchase plaques for personal use at cost (about $170 plus tax and shipping as of January 2026. Quote will be given).
Installation and Venue Responsibilities
While plaques are provided by HKVCA, the sponsoring organization is responsible for:
- Installation costs, including mounting hardware and labour
- Ensuring the plaque is installed indoors and in a prominent location
- Mounting the plaque securely and permanently
- Ensuring the plaque is not altered without written permission from HKVCA.
Dedication Ceremony
Each plaque installation should include a dedication or unveiling ceremony. These events play an important role in education, remembrance, and community engagement.
Dedication events typically include:
- Remarks by the host organization and invited dignitaries
- A brief history of the Battle of Hong Kong (can be provided by region)
- Unveiling of the plaque
- Participation by family members of Hong Kong veterans
- Media coverage and photography
Organizers are encouraged to invite local media and submit photos and a short write-up to HKVCA for publication.
Get Involved
If you are interested in hosting a Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Plaque or would like more information, please contact plaques@hkvca.ca
Together, we can preserve this vital part of Canada’s history for future generations.
Links to More Information
History of the Plaques Project
Listing of Completed and Planned Installatations
Venue Steps to Order a Plaque (PDF)