#China #Hainan #Haikou #Pigeon Mission #WWII Rescue

Unlocking Pigeon Mission: A Journey into History

The new documentary titled "Unlocking Pigeon Mission" premiered on September 3, 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Anti-Fascist War. This film illuminates a lesser-known chapter of military history—an audacious rescue of Allied prisoners of war on the island of Hainan in 1945.

The event known as "Pigeon Mission" took place on August 27, 1945, just twelve days after Japan's unconditional surrender. A joint Chinese-American team of nine parachuted into Basuo, located in the western region of Hainan, to liberate over 200 Allied prisoners who had endured nearly three years of brutal captivity and forced labor. Out of more than 500 POWs initially sent to the camp, including members of the Australian 'Vigilante' Force, fewer than half survived the harrowing ordeal.

The documentary follows Australian researcher Brendan John Worrell as he revisits Hainan to piece together this fragmented history. His exploration reveals not only a military operation but also the profound bravery and compassion exhibited by the local Chinese populace. Through compelling interviews with witnesses, including 100-year-old ex-worker Zhang Renchang, the film unveils how local workers and guerrillas risked their lives to secretly provide food and assistance to the imprisoned Allies. This covert aid was a lifeline for the prisoners, showcasing a remarkable act of humanity amidst the chaos of war.

In the end, Unlocking Pigeon Mission transcends mere historical recounting and delivers a universal message. It illustrates powerfully that war is a devastating nightmare that inflicts profound suffering on all of humanity. The film serves as a poignant reminder that peace, much like air and sunshine, is invaluable and must be carefully preserved. It emphasizes an eternal truth: the spirit of international solidarity and the collective quest for peace are the strongest forces against evil. These principles have the potential to transform what was once a 'Hell Island' of captivity into a 'Paradise Island’ of freedom and shared humanity.

As viewers immerse themselves in this profound narrative, they are invited to reflect on the significance of compassion, bravery, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. Unlocking Pigeon Mission stands not only as a testament to a specific historical event but also as a timeless reminder of our shared responsibility to pursue peace for all of humanity.