In September 1942, the Lisbon Maru, a Japanese transport ship carrying British POWs, was torpedoed off the Zhoushan Islands in Zhejiang Province on the Chinese mainland. As freezing waters claimed lives, local fishermen sprang into action, risking their own safety to haul survivors aboard.
Amid chaos, courage and compassion prevailed. By dawn's light, 384 men had been pulled from the sea, thanks to the decisive efforts of small boats braving debris and enemy fire. Their daring mission reminds us that acts of kindness can shine brightest in darkness.
Today, statues, letters, and paintings on the island honor those fishermen and the freed POWs. On the 80th anniversary of the WWII victory, their story reminds global citizens of the power of solidarity in turbulent times.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
