In the chaos of World War II, a story of humanity emerged from the waters near China's Zhoushan Islands. In 1942, the Japanese transport ship Lisbon Maru sank, carrying over 1,800 British prisoners of war. As survivors struggled in the waves, local fishermen from Zhejiang Province raced to save them—defying danger to pull 384 POWs to safety. 🚤💨
Today, the islands honor this act of bravery with statues, heartfelt letters from survivors' families, and vivid paintings that capture the rescue's urgency. 'They risked their lives for strangers,' says historian Li Wei. 'It’s a reminder that compassion can shine even in war’s darkest hours.'
As the world marks the 80th anniversary of WWII’s end, the Lisbon Maru story resonates anew. Young travelers visiting Zhoushan now discover this hidden chapter of history—one where ordinary people chose extraordinary kindness. 🌟
