World War 2 began on September 1st, 1939 as Hitler and his German troops swept into Poland without a declaration of war. On September 10th, 1939, Canada declared war on Germany, shortly after the Germans invaded Poland, and Britain, France, Australia, and New Zealand declared war. Canada's various roles in the war would contribute to their status on the world stage following the tragic war. Canada took part in many of major battles throughout the war and had a severe impact on the outcome.

On October 2nd, 1941, Canada sent two battalions to Hong Kong, the Winnipeg Grenediers and the Royal Rifles to Hong Kong to support the British soldiers who were to defend against the Japanese. The Canadian troops were expected to take part in garrison duty and no one expected heavy combat. Therefore, the troops who embarked the island were not prepared for battle at all. The consequences, however, were...