In Los Angeles on Monday evening, a reception was held to honor U.S. General Claire Lee Chennault, who led the Flying Tigers pilots in fighting Japanese invaders in China during World War II.
General Chennault formed the “Flying Tigers” in 1941 to support the Chinese people in their fight against the Japanese troops.
Chinese Consul General in Los Angeles Guo Shaochun spoke at the event, highlighting the Flying Tigers’ destruction of more than 2,900 enemy planes and 44 Japanese naval vessels, with over 2,000 American Flying Tigers sacrificing their lives in battle. He also emphasized the Chinese people’s support for the Flying Tigers during the war.
Guo stated that the story of General Chennault and the Flying Tigers demonstrates the strong bond between the Chinese and American people in their joint defense for justice and peace.
Guo also mentioned the recent meeting in San Francisco between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden, where the leaders emphasized the importance of China-U.S. relationship and agreed to strengthen dialogue and cooperation between the two countries in various areas.
U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu, who addressed the event, praised the selflessness and bravery of the Flying Tigers and emphasized the importance of never forgetting the deep friendship between the U.S. and China.
Chu also mentioned a display wall that was installed in an aviation-themed restaurant in Los Angeles in 2018, presenting the timeline of the Flying Tigers’ story and serving as a reminder of the enduring relationship between the U.S. and China.
Several veterans of the “Flying Tigers” pilots and their family members were also in attendance at the reception.
