At the outset of World War II, Captain A.C.M. Thomson, aged 52, reenlisted in the Royal Rifles of Canada. He earned the nickname “Pop” because he was so much older than anyone else. Considered too old for combat, he was appointed the regiment’s paymaster. Nevertheless, when his regiment then based in Hong Kong was attacked by the Japanese he gave up paymaster duties and turned to combat. Following the surrender of Hong Kong, Pop spent four years in prisoner of war camp.
Pop kept some records during his World War II service. These are available on the website of the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association.