New Flying Tigers Friendship School Enhances China-US Youth Relations
A new Flying Tigers Friendship School and Youth Leadership Program have recently been launched in Liuzhou, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, to deepen the bond between the younger generations of China and the United States, honoring the legacy of the Flying Tigers.
The Flying Tigers, officially known as the American Volunteer Group, was established in 1941 by General Claire Lee Chennault of the US to collaborate with the Chinese military and civilians in fighting against Japanese aggressors. Their mission garnered immense support from the Chinese people, who played a crucial role in rescuing over 200 American Flying Tigers members and providing assistance during battles.
To commemorate the enduring friendship built eight decades ago, a delegation of 32 Flying Tigers veterans, their relatives, and members of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation visited Liuzhou from November 4th to Monday, aiming to share the legacy of the Flying Tigers and foster communication between Chinese and American youth.
A significant milestone during their visit was the launch of the Flying Tigers Friendship School and the Youth Leadership Program at the Huxi Experimental Middle School, where the delegation had the opportunity to engage with students. This program, unveiled in September 2022 by the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation in cooperation with the Consulate General of China in San Francisco, seeks to establish friendship schools across various Chinese provinces. Zhijiang Dong autonomous county No.4 Middle School in Hunan province has recently joined this initiative.
Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-US Aviation Heritage Foundation, explained that the program aims to enhance mutual understanding between young people in China and the United States through various forms of communication and learning. An incentive fund has been established to reward participants, paving the way for increased interaction and cultural exchange.
Once the current program concludes, both sides plan to organize reciprocal visits for teachers and students, along with numerous joint activities. These efforts intend to promote greater interaction between the two nations by fostering a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the Flying Tigers.
Nell Calloway, granddaughter of General Chennault, emphasized the importance of face-to-face communication and cooperation between American and Chinese students. She believes that genuine connections can be formed when they collaborate and learn together.
The students at Huxi Experimental Middle School showcased their enthusiasm by combining elements of the Flying Tigers with traditional Chinese crafts like tie-dyeing, folding fans, and kites. These personalized gifts were presented to the veteran representatives of the Flying Tigers, leaving a lasting impression on both sides.
During their visit, 103-year-old veteran Harry Moyer and 98-year-old Melvin McMullen shared captivating stories of the Flying Tigers’ pivotal role during the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45). Their accounts served as a reminder of the enduring friendship forged between the Chinese and American people.
Harry Moyer, who celebrated his 103rd birthday in Beijing on October 30th, remarked that the bond between the Chinese and American people will always prevail, just as it did during those challenging times.
The establishment of the Flying Tigers Friendship School and the Youth Leadership Program in Liuzhou marks another milestone in strengthening China-US relations. By fostering friendship and understanding among the younger generation, this program ensures that the spirit of the Flying Tigers and the deep connection between the Chinese and American people continue to thrive.
