Medals presentation to Richard Lee (CFJC)

By Connor Gunn

FREDERICK LEE HONOURED

Nephew of fallen Kamloops veteran Frederick Lee given honourary war medals on anniversary of his passing

Aug 22, 2022 | 4:09 PM

KAMLOOPS — On Saturday (Aug. 20), the relative of a Kamloops man who served and died in World War I was given honourary medals.

On the anniversary of the day, Canadian War Veteran Frederick Lee of Kamloops died in WWI, his nephew Richard Lee was gifted two medals in honour of his uncle’s life.

“These medals here represent the sacrifice paying the ultimate price — so, for his sacrifice, may he rest in peace, I’d like to present these to you,” said Commanding Officer of the Rocky Mountain Rangers, Amedeo Vecchio, as he gave Richard the medals.

Freddy Lee was only 20 years old when he signed up to fight for Canada in World War I, and was one of more than 1,000 young men from B.C. who joined the Rocky Mountain Rangers during the Great War.

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The Battle of Hill 70 took place after the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917, Vecchio says Frederick should have received his medals more than 100 years ago.

“He should’ve gotten them in 1915 and 1918 and, of course, he lost his life on this day at Hill 70.”

More than 200 Chinese soldiers were part of the Canadian Expeditionary Forces in World War I even though they weren’t Canadian citizens. One of those 200 soldiers was Frederick Lee.

In honour of his service, a British Victory Medal and the British War medal was given to Richard.

“A soldier’s contribution to a nation is depicted by their storied past and by the medals they proudly wear on their uniform,” Vecchio said.

“Thank you, it’s much appreciated,” Richard Lee replied.

Although Frederick’s body was never found, Vecchio hopes these medals can symbolize what he did for Canada.

“It touches every part of my heart and it touches the storied history of our regiment the Rocky Mountain Rangers. From the independent rifle companies to the 102nd Battalion and the 172nd Canadian Expeditionary Force of the Rocky Mountain Rangers — so today is an incredibly special day to have Richard here in order to perpetuate this legacy.”