The seminars adopted the tone of “solemnity rather than heavy-heartedness; tragic grandeur rather than sorrow; and unity rather than divisiveness”. With the use of moving clips of songs, films and stage plays, as well as the stirring deeds of anti-Japanese war heroes, the seminars recounted some bloody and tearful imprints left upon the Chinese nation during the 14 years of tribulations, bringing history to life vividly. In the seminars, the account of how Hong Kong fought courageously against the enemy alongside our country in the face of national crisis particularly touched the hearts of our colleagues. Participants felt as if they had teleported back in time to witness the indomitable spirit of our predecessors and gained a profound appreciation of the hard-won peace.

Through the seminars, we have not only established a correct view of history, but have also deeply grasped that “every inch of land costs every drop of blood” as martyrs paid a heavy price during the war. With strong and unwavering determination, our heroes successfully defended our homeland, brought about a national awakening and set the course for national rejuvenation today. The seminars also urged us to pass on the lessons and memories of history, from generation to generation.

During the Japanese invasion of Hong Kong, both Britain and Japan had their own strategic calculations. The former's real intent was revealed in the memoirs of Winston Churchill. This highlighted a crucial lesson: we can only rely on ourselves to protect our country; only a strong country can guard against the invasion by other countries. Therefore, remembering history is not about the form of commemoration, but about the national responsibility of every generation to safeguard hard-won peace and stability through concrete actions. As concluded by Mr Oscar Kwok Yam-shu, Head of the Civil Service College, we should draw lessons on national security, and pass on the lessons learnt, making it an awakening that belongs to our generation.

Although history belongs in the past, it must not be forgotten. As civil servants, we shoulder the responsibility of learning from history, passing on the lessons learnt from historical events to the next generation. We should remain steadfast in safeguarding peace and strive to foster the spirit of self-enhancement of our predecessors.