Sirens, Stories, and Solidarity: How China Marks a Pivotal WWII Anniversary
On Wednesday, sirens echoed across Shenyang as China commemorated the 93rd anniversary of the September 18 Incident—a day marking the start of Japan's 14-year invasion in 1931. 🕊️ From paused traffic to solemn museum ceremonies, the nation reflected on its wartime past while celebrating modern progress.
Why September 18? In 1931, Japanese troops staged a railway explosion near Shenyang as a pretext to invade. By 9:18 a.m. this year, crowds gathered at the city’s 9.18 Historical Museum, where a bullet-riddled calendar-shaped monument stands as a stark reminder of sacrifice. 'We remember not to hate, but to learn,' said museum curator Fan Lihong.
The tradition of sounding sirens began in 1995 after retired factory worker Hao Songqing urged leaders to 'never forget national humiliation.' Today, high-speed train driver Gong Zhigang captured the contrast: 'Once, railways symbolized invasion. Now, our trains symbolize innovation.' 🚄
From Nanjing’s Peace Bell ceremonies to Chengdu’s silent vigils, millions honored the 35 million Chinese casualties of WWII—a third of global losses. At Shenyang’s Beidaying historic site, interactive exhibits blended relics with AR tech, proving history can be both educational and immersive. 🖼️
'History gives us strength,' said professor He Zhongling, designer of the museum’s skeletal-themed monument. As sirens faded, one message rang clear: Peace is built on memory—and China’s youth are listening. ✨
