It was here at Taichu, in nineteen forty-two
We toiled as slaves, and it is true -
Starved and beaten, it’s our story to tell
Of years long ago in this place of hell.

We return this day , and now once more
Through the portals of time, unlock memory’s door. As we stand by this stone, we remember with pride All of our comrades - especially those who died.

Those who pass by, and linger to stay
To read the words that this stone displays
Will understand why our ties will not sever
While it stands here - now and forever.

- penned specially for the dedication of the memorial
by Taichu survivor, Maurice Rooney,
who visited the site of the former camp in 1998.