#China #USA #Chongqing #Stilwell Road

Celebrating the 80th Anniversary of Stilwell Road

In 2023, a historic journey was embarked upon by the descendants of General Joseph Stilwell, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Stilwell Road. This vital supply route provided crucial support during World War II, connecting India to Kunming, Yunnan, through the challenging terrain of northern Myanmar. Named after General Stilwell, this route exemplified international cooperation and shared sacrifice during a critical time in history.

Honoring Legacy in Chongqing

The celebration kicked off on September 4 at the Stilwell Museum in Chongqing, with the participation of nine family members, including Stilwell's great-granddaughters Nancy Millward and Susan Cole, along with their families, and great-grandson Dennis Cox.

A highlight of the event was the unveiling of a life-sized bronze statue of General Stilwell, which captures him with a determined gaze and a rifle slung over his shoulder. Susan Cole remarked, “This statue is a testament to the deep affection the Chinese people have for my grandfather and reflects his profound respect for them.” The festivities included book presentations and the donation of historical documents, further deepening the connection to Stilwell’s legacy.

Journey Through Yunnan: Remembrance and Reflection

On September 5, the Stilwell family toured Yunnan, exploring sites along the old route, including the Stilwell Road Museum, Houqiao, and the Wanding Bridge. At the National War Cemetery in Tengchong, they paused to honor the thousands of Chinese soldiers alongside 19 American soldiers who had fought bravely. This visit provided a poignant moment of reflection for Nancy Millward, who emphasized the importance of educating their children about their family legacy and the bonds forged with the Chinese people.

The family also visited the Songshan battlefield, laying flowers to commemorate the sacrifices made by both Chinese and allied soldiers, with remnants of trenches and bunkers from 1944 vividly illustrating the harsh realities of war.

Cultural Exchanges and the Final Stop in Shanghai

The commemorative trip included cultural exchanges, notably at a local primary school in Chongqing, where family members recounted stories from the war and engaged with students through football and traditional crafts. This interaction highlighted the continuing spirit of cooperation and friendship.

The family concluded their visit in Shanghai at the historic residence of Soong Ching Ling, emphasizing personal relationships that supported alliances during wartime. This final stop served as a powerful reminder of how individual bonds can complement broader diplomatic ties, ensuring the continuation of a lasting friendship between the people of China and the United States.

As we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Stilwell Road, we are reminded of the enduring values of bravery, cooperation, and international solidarity. This leg of history continues to foster an atmosphere of trust and dialogue, even as we navigate complex global challenges today.

The story of the Stilwell Road is not just about logistics during the war; it is, more importantly, about people coming together, bridging divides through cooperation and friendship, ensuring that the spirit of connection flourishes for generations to come.