Ronald Holmes was a prominent British colonial administrator in Hong Kong, renowned for his pivotal roles in post-war reconstruction, refugee resettlement, and maintaining stability during turbulent periods.[1] Born in the early 20th century, he served in the British Army Aid Group during World War II, participating in guerrilla actions against Japanese forces in the Far East and aiding prisoner-of-war rescues, earning multiple decorations from the British government.[1] After the war, Holmes contributed significantly to Hong Kong's rebuilding. In 1954, following the devastating Shek Kip Mei fire that left over 50,000 refugees homeless, Governor Sir Alexander Grantham tasked him with establishing the Resettlement Department as its first Commissioner and Deputy Colonial Secretary. This department built estates to house the displaced, addressing a massive humanitarian crisis.[1] He later advanced to Director of Urban Services, New Territories District Commissioner, and Director of Commerce and Industry in 1962, coinciding with Hong Kong's textile industry boom. In this role, he negotiated European trade agreements to expand markets.[1] Holmes was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 1962 New Year Honours. During the 1967 riots fueled by pro-Communist elements and pipe bomb threats, he staunchly opposed British withdrawal in the Executive Council, advocating a hard-line policy against leftists that quelled the unrest and preserved colonial rule.[1] He also served as an official member of the Urban Council and Legislative Council.[1] Holmes's legacy endures as a key architect of modern Hong Kong's infrastructure and economic foundations, with his crisis leadership exemplifying resilient governance in a colonial outpost.[1]