The year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a milestone that underscores the enduring significance of this pivotal chapter in global history. To commemorate the occasion, we spoke with Zou Dehuai, a dedicated historian and collector who has spent more than a decade preserving stories of World War II in China. Through his extraordinary collection of over 100,000 wartime photographs and artifacts, Zou sheds light on the resilience, humanity, and sacrifices of those who lived through one of the most devastating periods in modern history.
Based in Beijing, Zou’s collection includes rare letters, personal keepsakes, and photographs that go beyond battlefield scenes to document the everyday lives of ordinary people and unsung heroes. By sharing these stories, he ensures that the experiences of those who endured the war continue to inspire and educate future generations.
Here’s what Zou shared with us in a heartfelt and insightful conversation:
Every photograph has a story. Can you share a particularly meaningful photo from your collection and the story it tells about life during the war?
“I have countless photos, each carrying deep meaning, making it difficult to choose the most representative one. However, one story that stands out is about a Chinese soldier named Chen Shaowu. During World War II, Chen kept a personal photo album. In 1938, as his Yunnan-based unit was deployed to the frontline during the Battle of Wuhan, Chen wrote a farewell letter on the back of one of his identification photos. Addressed to his wife, the letter expressed his fear that he might not survive the battle. In a selfless act of love, he urged her to remarry to ensure her future happiness. It remains an incredibly moving testament to his courage and sacrifice.”
“Another remarkable story involves an American fighter pilot, whose bravery was briefly mentioned in a local newspaper. After transferring from India to Kunming Airport in Yunnan, he faced a sudden Japanese bombing raid. As many Chinese laborers working to repair the airport were killed or injured in the attack, the pilot, unable to launch his plane in time, ran through enemy fire to rescue several of the injured workers. His actions saved lives and stand as a profound example of humanity amid the horrors of war.”
While war is often remembered through battles and leaders, your collection captures the lives of ordinary people. What do these images reveal about daily life during WWII in China?
“Only about 20% of the photos in my collection depict military or battlefield scenes. The remaining 80% capture civilian life, providing invaluable glimpses into everyday moments. These include the ancient villages in Yunnan, Guizhou, and Guangxi, documented by the American Flying Tigers, as well as historic sites photographed by Japanese troops — many of which no longer exist, making the images even more precious.
One particularly striking photo was taken in Chongqing during a dragon boat race. Amazingly, this race occurred just an hour after Japanese bombers had devastated the city. The image depicts a joyous scene that seems entirely disconnected from the destruction that had just unfolded. It speaks to the resilience of the people, who carried on despite relentless bombings, holding onto their lives, homes, and dreams.”
“Another powerful photo shows a group of library employees in Yunnan standing calmly in front of their building, which had been bombed multiple times. These survivors, composed and resolute, embody a strength and determination that is difficult to fathom today.”
Figures like Claire Lee Chennault and the Flying Tigers are well-known, but WWII was full of unsung heroes. Are there any lesser-known individuals or stories from your collection that you think deserve more recognition?
“World War II was full of unsung heroes, and photographs bring their stories to life. I recall one story from an exhibition I curated at the American Embassy. It involved two American brothers who both served in the Air Force. One was assigned to the 14th Air Force under Chennault in China, while the other flew bombers over Europe. Tragically, the brother in Europe was shot down over Romania and, after parachuting to safety, was captured and executed. Stories like these highlight the sacrifices of so many individuals.”
“Another story recounts the experiences of the family of Ambassador Burns, a distinguished American diplomat. His wife’s grandfather and her grandfather’s two brothers each served in different theaters during World War II: Europe, North Africa, and China. One of the brothers, despite being above the age limit for service, was determined to contribute to the war effort in China, driven by his family’s longstanding tradition of military service. He became a gunner on a bomber — a position notorious for its high casualty rates. Stories like these make the sacrifices tangible, turning names into people with lives, families, and legacies.”
Beyond photographs, personal artifacts like letters, canteens, and keepsakes add another layer to history. What can these artifacts tell us about the human side of the war that photographs alone cannot?
“Photos are two-dimensional — they capture a moment but lack the tactile connection of artifacts. Personal items like letters and keepsakes bring you closer to history. For example, I have a crystal necklace worn by an American bomber pilot. Inside the crystal is a four-leaf clover, a gift from his girlfriend engraved with the words “my love,” symbolizing her wish for his safe return. It’s a poignant reminder of the personal stakes of war.”
“I also have a collection of letters from an American general, almost all written to his daughter. They detail everything from his meals in China to his battle experiences. These letters reveal his deep love for his daughter and add emotional depth to his story, far beyond what a photo could convey. Even the smallest item, like a pen or a leaf, could become a cherished memento in such uncertain times.”
Many of your stories highlight cooperation between Chinese civilians and American forces. Can you share a photograph or artifact that captures the courage or solidarity between the two sides during the war?
“One compelling story is about Yimin Zhang, a Chinese-American pilot born in California. His family was extraordinarily wealthy, yet after the 1931 Manchurian Incident, he and his friends enrolled in an American aviation school to learn fighter piloting. After completing his training, Zhang joined the Guangdong Air Force and eventually became a pilot in Hangzhou.
In his photo album, there’s a single letter, likely addressed to a brother or cousin, where he writes about his parents pressuring him to marry. Despite his privileged background, he chose to focus on the war effort, saying he would consider marriage only after victory. He was killed in action six months later. Stories like Zhang’s exemplify the sacrifices made by those whose contributions have long been forgotten.”
Why is it important to preserve and share these photographs and artifacts today?
“The friendships forged between China, the U.S., and other Allied nations during WWII should be passed down through generations. Communication fosters understanding, breaking down barriers and reducing prejudice. History reminds us of this potential.
For example, after the war in 1945, a primary school student in Shanghai embroidered a gift for an American soldier with the words, “May the friendship between China and the U.S., forged in blood, last forever.” Such gestures of solidarity are invaluable reminders of our shared humanity and the importance of remembering history.”
How do you hope your collection impacts modern audiences, especially younger generations?
“I have been sharing old photos and their stories on social media for years. Photos have a unique power to convey a story in an instant. Take, for example, an image of the Flying Tigers: the visual elements — smoke billowing in the background, wreckage on the ground, a pilot amidst injured people — immediately tell a powerful narrative. Even without understanding the language or context, a photograph can transcend barriers, making history accessible to all.
In today’s era of smartphones, people have tens of thousands of photos at their fingertips. But 80 years ago, during wartime, cameras relied on film, and every single shutter click was precious. Each photograph carried immense weight and significance.
As General MacArthur famously said, “Old soldiers never die. As long as they live in memory, they never die.” By preserving their stories and sharing their images, we ensure these memories remain alive in our collective consciousness.”
Zou Dehuai reminds us that preserving history is essential for fostering understanding and connection across generations and cultures. Inspired by stories like those Zou has worked tirelessly to uncover, WildChina is proud to introduce a series of new WWII-themed journeys for 2025. These tours delve into the pivotal events and partnerships that shaped the war in China, celebrating the remarkable collaboration between Chinese and Western aviators.
We invite you to join us on one of these expert-led journeys, where history comes alive through experiences that explore the courage, resilience, and humanity of those who lived through World War II. Walk in the footsteps of the Flying Tigers, uncover the significance of the Doolittle Raids, and connect with the personal narratives that bridge the past and present.
Interview and translation by Oreo Zeng, Gabrielle Keepfer & Shirley Peng
A special thanks to: Zou Dehuai
