Commemorating the 60th Anniversary of V-J Day and the End of World War II in the Pacific
COMMEMORATING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF V-J DAY AND THE END OF WORLD WAR II IN THE PACIFIC -- (House of Representatives - September 06, 2005)
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Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I join in supporting House Resolution 360 recognizing V-J Day.
Last week, I was honored to serve on a delegation with Congresswoman MADELEINE BORDALLO, accompanied by Col. Antonio Baines (U.S. Army--Ret.) for the V-J Day activities in Beijing, China. The U.S. Embassy staff professionally coordinated the visit.
A highlight was to meet with U.S. veterans who served in China during World War II. It was inspiring to personally meet heroes who still exhibit the courage of their service 60 years ago.
I am grateful for my host, the Hon. Jiang Enzhu, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National People's Congress, who extended the invitation and provided a warm exchange of ideas to promote Chinese American Friendship. I addressed concern that the talks on textile imports had broken down the previous day.
At the Great Hall of the People, we were welcomed by the Hon. Sheng Hauren, Vice Chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee. In a frank exchange of viewpoints, we determined China and America have more in common rather than differences.
It was inspiring to join veterans of a dozen nations at the Beijing Peace Wall for the signing for the Beijing Peace Declaration. Our stay concluded with a dinner hosted by President Hu Jintao.
As the son of a Flying Tiger who served in China, I especially was appreciative to attend these events. My late father, 1LT Hugh D. Wilson, was proud to have protected the Chinese people in the Fourteenth Air Force as a member of the 91st Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group known as the Thunderdragons of Fungwaushan, China.
The following report by my father was presented to fellow 14th Air Force Veterans as he reflected on his service.
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