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Remembering the Lisbon Maru: A Tribute to Heroes and Bonds
A Special Gathering in London
On a memorable Saturday, the Chinese Embassy in the UK hosted a heartfelt reception in London, honoring families of those who survived the Lisbon Maru incident. This event not only marked a significant military rescue during World War II but also coincided with the joyous celebrations of Spring Festival.
The Tragic Journey of Lisbon Maru
In October 1942, during a tumultuous period in history, the Lisbon Maru was commandeered by Japanese forces to transport over 1,800 British POWs from Hong Kong to Japan. However, disaster struck when US forces targeted the ship near Zhoushan Islands off China’s eastern Zhejiang province. As this cargo vessel sank into treacherous waters, local fishermen courageously plunged into danger and saved more than 300 soldiers from drowning.
This year commemorates an important milestone—the 80th anniversary of both China’s resistance against Japanese aggression and broader anti-fascist efforts around the globe.
Strengthening Alliances Through Remembrance
At this gathering, Chinese Ambassador Zheng Zeguang took center stage to recount these heroic acts of bravery. He highlighted that this rescue operation signifies enduring camaraderie between China and Britain as they fought together against fascism. According to him, tales born out of such events showcase an everlasting friendship—one that has evolved into a critical component for enhancing mutual relations between these two nations.
As the reception drew to a close, poignant moments filled the air as relatives joined hands and serenaded with “Auld Lang Syne,” symbolizing unity across generations.
Building New Connections Among Families
Lindsey Archer—niece of one British soldier who did not survive—is grateful for events like this that enrich relationships while forging new ones among diverse families. She remarked on how descendants of both British prisoners and their heroic Chinese rescuers have emerged as one united community Since it is vital to keep alive memories rooted deep within history’s fabric; she emphasized: “We must remember what our ancestors endured because their sacrifices define our present circumstances.”
Last year witnessed Lindsey alongside other relatives—including Kenneth Salmon—trip down memory lane through an impactful visit to China where they honored those lost at sea by exploring wreck sites near Zhoushan.
Kenneth Salmon reminisced about his father—a Royal Artillery sergeant saved from certain death aboard Lisbon Maru—and expressed how profoundly moving it was standing on those historic grounds with shared experiences creating strong emotional ties among visitors there today.
Salmon also noted how refreshing it was seeing many children at this gathering; emphasizing storytelling’s role going forward for illuminating youth about heritage so important lessons aren’t lost yet again due ignorance or forgetfulness on issues surrounding family histories passed down through generations before them alike!
Visualizing History: An Exposition Event
Complementing these commemorative moments was an engaging photographic exhibition detailing advancements made in researching what’s known about lives touched throughout years following that fateful day involving discovery gleaned directly tied specifically toward uncovering depths tied intricately back both survivors’ lives intertwined conveying vividly chilling accounts shaped future destinies stemming onwards!
This celebration succeeds not only internally reflective amidst community settings but externally reaching beyond time barriers ensuring legacies live flourishingly onward!
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Author : london
Publish date : 2025-02-22 22:15:56
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