On May 20, a moving ceremony took place on a picturesque island off the coast of Zhejiang Province on the Chinese mainland. Locals and international guests gathered to unveil the Memorial for Dongji Fishermen’s Rescue of British Prisoners of War, honoring a wartime act of bravery that has resonated across 83 years.
Back in October 1942, the transport ship Lisbon Maru sank in turbulent waters. Faced with danger, fishermen from the Dongji archipelago risked their lives in small boats to pull British soldiers from the sea. Their courage saved dozens and laid the foundation for an enduring friendship between the Chinese and British peoples.
At the ceremony, 18 descendants of those rescued POWs stood alongside the island’s residents, bridging generations and geographies. Their presence underscored how individual acts of kindness can ripple through history, inspiring new bonds and shared stories.
This gathering highlights the power of people-to-people connections in a world often shaped by headlines and geopolitics. For young global citizens and travelers, the Dongji memorial offers more than a historical landmark—it shines as a symbol of solidarity, reminding us that empathy transcends borders.
As sustainability and cultural heritage emerge as key themes for explorers and changemakers, sites like Dongji invite a new generation to engage with history, honor everyday heroes, and cultivate friendships that span continents. In commemorating this rescue, we celebrate not only the past but also a future built on mutual respect and shared humanity.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
