2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, when Chinese soldiers and civilians risked their lives for the country's dignity.
Ninety-nine-year-old veteran Huang Dexing still remembers every battle he fought in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression from 1937 to 1945.
The most fierce battle he fought was the Mount Zhongtiaoshan battle in 1939.
"I participated in that battle for more than five years. We adopted guerrilla warfare in Taihang Mountains. Both my hands and legs were wounded by Japanese swords. I was almost killed by the enemy," Huang recalled.
Historical records show that more than 40,000 Chinese soldiers were killed in the bloody battle, but they managed to stop the invading Japanese army from entering northwest China.
"I had no fear at all. After I joined the army, I was ready to give up my life," Huang said.
Suo Liangmin, now 102 years old, too, never thought about death when fighting against the Japanese invaders. He once was poisoned by a gas bomb thrown by the Japanese troops during a battle and later was captured alive.
"I was 24. They brought us to a big round pit. We were encircled with dozens of rifles and swords. I guessed they would kill us and then bury us in the pit. Everybody's face was pale. But I felt honored when I thought I was going to die fighting against the Japanese," Suo remembered.
Both Huang and Suo and their sacrifices have not been forgotten by the country and the people. In 2015, they were awarded commemorative medals when China celebrated the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
"I cried after I watched the parade (in Beijing) on September 3, 2015. I live in such a great country. Our lives are much better than before. I cherish all the honors I have and the life I've lived," Suo said.
