#China #Xi Jinping #Chongqing #Stilwell Road #U.S.-China friendship

Honoring 80 Years of the Stilwell Road

In 2023, we celebrate a remarkable milestone, the 80th anniversary of the Stilwell Road, a vital supply route utilized during World War II, which connected India to Kunming, Yunnan through Myanmar. This road has become a powerful symbol of cooperation between China and the United States, representing courage, collaboration, and international solidarity.

Historical Significance

The Stilwell Road was named after General Joseph Stilwell, who played a crucial role in establishing it to support China during the war against Japanese aggression. This route was not merely a pathway for transport; it was a lifeline for weapons, fuel, and medical supplies essential for the Chinese war effort. The decades that have followed have transformed the road into an enduring reminder of the strong ties forged through shared sacrifice and persistence.

A Momentous Visit

To commemorate this special occasion, the descendants of General Stilwell visited China, starting their journey on September 4, 2023, at the Stilwell Museum in Chongqing. Among the visitors were Nancy Millward and Susan Cole, General Stilwell's great-granddaughters, along with other family members. They were welcomed by prominent historians from China and the U.S. who discussed the legacy of General Stilwell and the ethos of friendship it represents.

A highlight of the commemoration was the unveiling of a bronze statue depicting General Stilwell, characteristically holding a rifle with a resolute gaze. Susan Cole reflected on the deep affection that the Chinese people have for her great-grandfather, saying, “This statue stands as a testament to the bond that exists between our two nations.” This ceremony also included presentations of books honoring the history of the road and donations of historical documents.

Exploring Historical Sites

On September 5, the Stilwell family ventured into Yunnan, visiting key historical sites along the road, including the Stilwell Road Museum, the Houqiao, and the Wanding Bridge. Family members collected stones as mementos from the ancient route, symbolizing their connection to their family heritage and the broader historical narrative.

They paid their respects at the Tengchong War Cemetery, where thousands of Chinese soldiers and 19 Americans rest. Nancy Millward remarked, “Being here changes everything. It’s essential for our children to learn about their family’s legacy and the relationships that General Stilwell built with the Chinese people.” The family also commemorated Chinese and allied soldiers by laying flowers at the Songshan battlefield, viewing the trenches that tell stories of bravery and hardship during the year 1944.

Cultural Exchange Initiatives

The visit not only honored military history but also fostered cultural exchange. The family visited Datianwan Elementary School in Chongqing, engaging students with stories from wartime, participating in soccer matches, and working on traditional crafts. This interaction reflects a commitment to bridging knowledge and understanding between generations.

To conclude their meaningful journey, they traveled to Shanghai to the residence of Soong Ching Ling, a close friend of General Stilwell. This visit emphasized how personal relationships throughout history have contributed to building the enduring spirit of China-U.S. friendship, highlighting the importance of human connections amid historical alliances.

As we reflect on 80 years since the conception of the Stilwell Road, it remains a significant reminder of the transformative power of collaboration and friendship between nations. As President Xi Jinping conveyed in a letter to the Stilwell family, fostering the spirit of cooperation continues to be vital for enhancing mutual understanding in today’s context. The legacy of the Stilwell Road encourages ongoing dialogue and trust, generating a shared future for both the Chinese and American peoples.