YORBA LINDA, California — A significant gathering at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum this week paid tribute to the legendary Flying Tigers, commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s conclusion and reflecting on pivotal moments in Sino-American relations. The event brought together descendants of veterans, community leaders, and officials who emphasized the enduring relevance of wartime cooperation between the nations.
Nell Chennault Calloway, granddaughter of Flying Tigers commander General Claire Lee Chennault, addressed attendees with a powerful message about historical guidance. “History is our best guide. It records our past and offers inspiration for the future,” she stated, connecting the Flying Tigers’ legacy to President Nixon’s groundbreaking 1972 China visit and the subsequent normalization of relations under President Carter.
Calloway highlighted Nixon’s famous toast to Premier Zhou Enlai, noting that despite differences, common interests continue to transcend divisions. “The relationship between our two countries remains the most important bilateral relationship in our world today,” she asserted, urging remembrance of sacrifices made by soldiers, civilians, and diplomats during WWII.
Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, elaborated on the historical significance of the Flying Tigers’ campaign. “What happened in China 80 years ago brought the two nations close together in a way that no other event could,” Greene told the assembly. He recounted the bravery of American volunteer pilots and Chinese civilians who rescued downed airmen despite facing deadly retaliation.
California State Senator Bob Archuleta framed the Flying Tigers’ story as a contemporary lesson for global challenges. “History proves that we can accomplish more through cooperation than conflict, and through mutual respect rather than division,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of people-to-people diplomacy.
The commemoration also honored centenarian Flying Tigers veteran Mel McMullen and Zhang Sujiu, daughter of China’s “Peace General” Zhang Zhizhong, recognizing them as living connections between historical cooperation and present possibilities.
The event was jointly organized by the American Flying Tigers Communication Association, the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, and the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, serving as a poignant reminder of what bilateral cooperation can achieve when nations choose partnership over confrontation.