In a recent article for their school newspaper, HKIS students reflected on the visit of Sergeant Rick Carrier, liberator of Buchenwald and veteran of the Second World War, during which he addressed an estimated 800 students.

From their powerful words, it appears Sergeant Carrier’s account sensitized them not only to the power and importance of first-hand testimony, but also to the complexity of that time in history. We hope the students will continue on their quest to learn more about the events and processes of the Second World War and the Holocaust.

Alongside the United States Consulate in Hong Kong and Macau, the HKHTC arranged for Sergeant Carrier to address the following nine schools across the region: St. Stephens Girls’ College, Elsa High School, Kellett School, Po Leung Kok Laws Foundation College, Hong Kong International School, NLSI Lui Kwok Pat Fong College, Hong Kong University, Discovery College and Sha Tin College.

Sergeant Carrier spoke about his experience as a solider in the Second World War, recounted the liberation of Buchenwald, and shared his advice for fighting bigotry and intolerance today.

In total, 2,500 students (aged 12-22) were present for Sergeant Carrier’s talks.

Sergeant Carrier’s visit to Hong Kong was covered by Apple Daily, CNN, and Phoenix TV.