Winnipeg, Manitoba
Mr. Peterson is a Second World War Veteran and a former prisoner of war in Hong Kong. For more than a decade, he has been president of the Manitoba branch and Vice President of the National Council of the Hong Kong Veterans Association of Canada. After the war, Mr. Peterson made it his life's mission to make people aware of the suffering and humiliation experienced by prisoners of war. Mr. Peterson never misses an opportunity to recount his story and as a result, has been interviewed numerous times over the years to discuss his almost four years of internment. He visits schools and organizations throughout the year to ensure that people understand the ordeal of those who fought in the Battle for Hong Kong. Mr. Peterson has served for many years on the Joint Veterans Council of Manitoba. He is now giving his whole-hearted support to the erection of a Memorial Wall in Ottawa to commemorate the Battle for Hong Kong. Just last month Mr. Peterson was also honoured with an induction into the Canadian Hall of Valour in Ottawa. Although his mobility is restricted, Mr. Peterson faithfully attends events honouring Canada's Veterans.