Hidden among the limestone peaks of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yangtang Airfield in Guilin tells a story of sacrifice and solidarity. Built under the shadow of Japanese bombers aiming to destroy Allied bases, this airstrip became a lifeline for pilots from the Chinese mainland and the United States.
Work crews poured in—often without machinery—and many laborers paid the ultimate price in sweltering heat and relentless raids. In the direst moments, families in Guilin gave up eggs so the rescued American fliers known as the Flying Tigers could regain strength. Their selfless acts ensured these pilots could return to the skies.
Jeffery Greene, veteran pilot and chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, recalls this shared history as a reminder of what global cooperation can achieve. "If China and the United States, the world pos;s most powerful countries, work together like they did 80 years ago, there pos;s nothing that can pos;t be accomplished," he says—words that still resonate for young global citizens seeking unity in today pos;s complex world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
