Chinese Labour Corps & Shot at Dawn: Poperinghe in WW1

In this film we explore the remarkable yet often overlooked story of the Chinese Labour Corps (CLC) and their role on the Western Front during the First World War, with a particular focus on their work in Flanders, Belgium.

We begin with a visit to the Chinese Labour Corps Memorial near Poperinghe, an evocative site that honours the memory of the thousands of Chinese workers who served behind the lines— repairing roads, unloading supplies, clearing the wreckage of war and working on the recovery of the fallen.

The film also takes a deeper look at life in Poperinghe (Poperinge) during WW1, once a bustling hub for Allied troops and support services just a few miles behind the front lines. We examine how the town operated during the war, its role as a place of rest and recovery, and the presence of the CLC in and around the area.

Finally, we turn to one of the more sobering aspects of Poperinghe’s history: the story of the men Shot at Dawn, British and Commonwealth soldiers executed for desertion, cowardice, or disobedience—many of whom are now remembered at the Shot at Dawn Memorial in the town.

This film is a blend of battlefield history, remembrance, and reflection—bringing attention to the diverse experiences of those who served in World War One, both in uniform and behind the scenes.

Locations Featured:

Chinese Labour Corps Memorial, Poperinghe
Poperinghe (Poperinge) town
Shot at Dawn Memorial and execution post

Historical Focus: 1917–1919
Topics Covered: Labour Corps, non-combatant roles, military discipline, remembrance, WW1 history in Belgium and Flanders.

Chinese Labour Corps, WW1 in Flanders, Poperinghe WW1, Poperinge Shot at Dawn, First World War labour units, Western Front history, WW1 remembrance, Chinese workers WW1, Shot at Dawn Memorial, Chinese contribution WW1, Poperinge military history, WW1 execution site, Commonwealth War Graves, Chinese Labour Corps Belgium, Old Front Line, WW1 documentary

#China #WW1 #Flanders #Poperinhe #worldwar1 #remembrance




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