The enduring legacy of the Flying Tigers, a group of American pilots and ground crew who fought alongside Chinese forces during World War II, continues to inspire generations. Charlene Fontaine, executive director of the Flying Tigers 69th Depot Repair Squadron Association, has dedicated her life to preserving this shared history. Her father, Stewart Fontaine, was part of the ground crew that supported the Flying Tigers in China during the war. His experiences in China, marked by hardship and camaraderie, left an indelible mark on his life and shaped his daughter’s mission. Stewart Fontaine arrived in China in 1943, where he formed deep bonds with Chinese colleagues and witnessed the resilience of the Chinese people amidst the devastation of war. Despite the challenges, he was captivated by China’s natural beauty and the determination of its people. After the war, Stewart returned to the US but carried the lessons of compassion and respect he learned in China throughout his life. Charlene Fontaine’s journey to honor her father’s legacy began in the early 2000s during a business trip to China. Wearing a Flying Tigers polo shirt, she was approached by villagers expressing gratitude for her father’s service. This profound experience led her to establish the 69th Depot Repair Squadron Association, dedicated to preserving the Flying Tigers’ history and fostering US-China friendship. Today, the organization focuses on educating younger generations about this pivotal chapter in history and continues to strengthen the bond between the two nations. Charlene Fontaine’s work, supported by the General Chennault Foundation, ensures that the sacrifices and dreams of the Flying Tigers remain alive, inspiring a future rooted in peace and mutual respect.