Ping Shan, New Territorities

Even so we observed this with some detachment thinking it was not our problem. But the rumors started as to what might happen to us. One such rumor linked to these troubles was that the Battery was to be split up. X Troop was to go to the Canal Zone or Benghazi, we with C would remain for the time being, but then we in A would go somewhere presently unknown and C would remain. To implement this all regulars were posted to X Troop along with national servicemen with longer to serve ¹. So something was afoot.

Effects Of Korea On Hong Kong and Us

With our return to England for demobilization then due in October, these changes concerned us. Of more concern was the imminent likelihood of our period of service being lengthened beyond the 18 months we were currently required to serve. As I recall no one’s thoughts turned to the security and safety of Hong Kong. Though I did note apropos world events that having recently seen a film about the atom bomb I wondered what useful purpose we were serving.

But the security of Hong Kong was obviously in the minds of others. For late on Thursday 17 July we were told to pack all our kit and equipment, leave Quarry Camp, and on Monday be at Stanley Barracks on Hong Kong Island. This caused some consternation as might be imagined. We did not know why, what purpose, nor were we told. That was to come.

So setting to and getting on with it we worked hard and long all over the weekend packing the equipment we had moved and unpacked just a few weeks earlier.