On May 20, a heartfelt ceremony was held on an island off the coast of Zhejiang Province to unveil the Memorial for Dongji Fishermen’s Rescue of British Prisoners of War. The event honored the brave local fishermen who, 83 years ago, risked their lives to save British soldiers during World War II.
Among the attendees were 18 descendants of the British prisoners of war who were aboard the “Lisbon Maru” when it sank in October 1942. The “Lisbon Maru” was transporting over 1,800 British POWs when it was torpedoed and began to sink. In the midst of chaos, Dongji fishermen sailed out to the disaster site, rescuing hundreds of soldiers from the treacherous waters.
“We are here to pay tribute to the selfless acts of these fishermen,” said one descendant. “Their courage and humanity forged a lasting bond between our peoples.”
The memorial stands as a symbol of the profound friendship between the Chinese and British peoples, reminding future generations of the shared sacrifices and the importance of compassion in times of conflict.
“This piece of history is a testament to the power of solidarity,” remarked another attendee. “It’s essential that we remember and honor these heroes who showed that empathy knows no borders.”
The unveiling of the memorial not only commemorates the past but also reinforces the enduring connection between China and the United Kingdom, emphasizing a legacy of mutual respect and understanding forged in one of history’s darkest hours.
