In Memorium

James Scott, affectionately known as “Jimmy”, passed away in hospital on December 14 after a short illness. He had recently returned from a trip to Taiwan for the annual Weekend of Remembrance where he took part, along with three other former Taiwan POWs, in a remembrance service and the dedication of the Kukutsu POW Memorial.

Jim was in the first group of POWs to go into the notorious Kinkaseki POW Camp in November 1942 and stayed until almost the very end, being sent out to the camp at Shirakawa early in the spring of 1945.

In his 80th year, Jim was full of life, and according to everyone who knew him, lived life to the full every day. He had an indominatable spirit - ready to take on anything that he wanted to do.

All his life Jim had been a musician. In prison camp he played the accordian at camp concerts to help cheer his mates, and after the war played both accordian and piano at local hotels, pubs and events. Jim endeared himself to all those he met in Taiwan. His cheery smile and lively piano playing will not soon be forgotten.

Former Kinkaseki POW, Jim Scott - standing beside the Kinkaseki POW Memorial on Remembrance Day 1999.

On his return from Taiwan, Jim had been excitedly telling everyone of the wonderful time he had. He was so pleased to have at last fulfilled his longtime wish to return again to Taiwan. He suffered a stroke two weeks after his return and passed away peacefully in hospital a week later.

Our heartfelt sympathy and warmest wishes go out to all his family at this time, with the assurance that he will be sadly missed, but he won’t ever be forgotten!

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--- from the Director

This past couple of months have been filled with much emotion. First, there was the revisiting of the Heito Camp in early November. Next came the erecting and dedication of the Kukutsu POW Memorial stone on the site of the former camp. Then the wonderful Remembrance Weekend which took place, featuring the POW banquet and Remembrance Day service at Kinkaseki under the auspices of the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei and the Canadian Society. These were all occasions for much rejoicing as we saw more of our efforts to remember the former POWs of Taiwan come to fruition. But there was sadness too, as we learned of the passing of Jim Scott who had been with us only a few weeks before.

And so the work goes on - as we seek to find the remains of several more camps and erect memorials at those we have found. We need the help of all those who are interested in helping to learn, understand and preserve the POWs’ story. We would like to hear from you with any questions or ideas you may have, and also with your financial support.

As I have said many times, we have a great team who are willing to do the work, but we need financial help to cover the costs of copying and documenting the POWs’ stories, the printing and postage for the newsletter, and general operating expenses. Anything you can do to help will be most gratefully appreciated!

Let Us Never Forget!