On the 79th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japan, a remarkable story of bravery and friendship has come to light. In 1944, during a daring air raid on Kai Tak Airport in Hong Kong, American pilot Lieutenant Donald Kerr found himself in a life-or-death situation. His plane was hit, forcing him to parachute into unfamiliar territory, with Japanese forces hot on his trail.
Just when hope seemed lost, local guerrilla fighters emerged as unexpected heroes. A small boy tugged at Kerr's sleeve, signaling him to follow. 🏃♂️ The boy led him into the mountains, away from danger. "He was the first person who was really helping him," recalls Kerr's son, David. This brave act was the beginning of a 20-day journey where villagers and guerrillas risked everything to protect and heal Kerr.
These guerrilla fighters weren't just hiding Kerr; they were actively diverting enemy attention. They handed out anti-Japanese leaflets, attacked enemy vehicles, and even conducted night raids on Kai Tak Airport to keep the Japanese forces occupied. Their actions showcased incredible courage and a commitment to a shared cause. ✊
Decades later, David Kerr fulfilled his father's wish by returning to China to find the heroes who saved him. Armed with his father's detailed diaries and hand-drawn maps, David retraced the escape route and connected with the descendants of those brave fighters. This journey not only honored his father's legacy but also reignited a friendship between China and the United States.
The rescue of Lieutenant Kerr stands as a powerful symbol of unity and cooperation. It's a story that reminds us of the strong bonds formed in the most challenging times and the enduring spirit of friendship between nations. 🌍❤️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
