Anti-Japanese War: From Becoming Chu Yunfei to Rising

Qiongzhou Island, Haikou Airport.

No fighter jets took off or landed today; instead, the place was decorated in a solemn and dignified manner, with colorful flags fluttering in the wind.

The flags of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the United States (American) flag fluttered in the sea breeze, creating a grand picture of the close alliance between China and the United States.

A unique award ceremony is being held here.

The makeshift viewing platform was filled with cameras and microphones.

Reporters from dozens of well-known media outlets from the Allied camp, including Reuters, Associated Press, TASS, The Times, and The New York Times, gathered here.

"Beep-beep-beep-"

As the solemn bugle call sounded, the entire audience stood at attention.

Amid thunderous applause, the two generals walked side by side toward the podium.

On the left is Lieutenant General Joseph Stilwell, Chief of Staff of the Allied Forces in the China Theater.

On the right is a Chinese general dressed in the uniform of a first-class general, with a straight back and a refined yet dignified appearance—He Yingqin (He Jingzhi), Minister of Military Affairs and Commander-in-Chief of the Army of the Republic of China.

"Crack! Click!"

Under the spotlight, what was recorded was not only the victory, but also the enviable unity within the Allied forces.

An Associated Press reporter was speaking into a microphone, surrounded by cameras and microphones, as if recording a video.

"Dear viewers, this is not just an award ceremony, but a testament to the friendship between the military personnel of China and the United States."

Everyone knows that General Stilwell and General Chu Yunfei were very close friends, and today's scene further confirms that rumor.

In the Far East, they were twin stars fighting side by side.

P.S.: At this point in time, the US not only had photographic equipment, but could also provide simultaneous audio streaming.
Military music suddenly rang out.

A line of Nationalist generals, dressed in brand-new American-style military uniforms, marched in unison, heads held high, toward the podium.

Leading the way was Du Yuming, the commander-in-chief of the Dingnan Army, followed closely by Zheng Dongguo, Huang Baitao, and meritorious division commanders such as Wu Sizhong, Bai Yongqiang, Bao Zhishan, and Pang Junming.

He Yingqin was the first to walk to the standing microphone, even carefully adjusting its height. He surveyed the entire area, his gaze sweeping over the blond-haired, blue-eyed Allied reporters, finally settling on the formation of Chinese soldiers.

"Fellow allies and friends, soldiers of the National Army!"

He Yingqin's voice was deep and resonant: "Today's Qiongzhou is a victorious Qiongzhou, the starting point of rejuvenation!"

"This victory is due not only to the bloody battle fought by our soldiers, but also to the strong support of our ally, the United States of America."

"On this occasion, on behalf of the Military Commission of the National Government, I hereby commend and award this medal!"

The first event was the awarding of medals by the Chinese side to the American side.

This is a highly symbolic moment—the Chinese military is no longer merely a recipient of aid, but an equal partner entitled to judge and commend the achievements of its allies.

The honor guards walked forward carrying a tray covered with red velvet.

He Yingqin turned around to face Stilwell, his expression solemn:
"General Stilwell, in recognition of your outstanding contributions to coordinating Allied operations and managing the Hainan Island strategy, you are hereby awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Cloud Banner with special approval from Chairman Lin Biao of the National Government!"

This medal is of an extremely high rank and is awarded specifically to generals of friendly nations who have made significant contributions to the country.

Although Stilwell usually had some complaints about the mountain city, he put aside his arrogance when faced with this medal representing national honor. He stood at attention, saluted, and bowed slightly, allowing He Yingqin to hang the blue and white sash on his shoulder.

Immediately afterwards, He Yingqin picked up another medal and walked towards Bradley, the commander of the U.S. 33rd Corps, who was standing behind Stilwell:
"General Bradley, Commander of the 33rd Corps, is awarded the Order of the Precious Tripod, Second Class, in recognition of the outstanding contributions of your armored forces in the landing operation at Lingao Cape."

Flashbulbs went off like crazy, capturing the historic moment of the Commander-in-Chief of the Chinese Army pinning a medal on an American general.

Then, the roles were reversed.

Stilwell walked to the microphone, a bright smile on his face, the kind of warm smile one would give to a close brother:

"Thank you, General He, and thank you to the Chinese government for this honor."

"Now, with the special authorization of President Roosevelt, I also want to pay tribute on behalf of the United States of America to our bravest ally!"

On this day, Stilwell's face was completely devoid of his usual harshness and coldness towards the mountain town; instead, it displayed a bright smile as if he were facing his own brothers.

According to the arrangements made by both sides, the highlight of this medal-awarding ceremony was actually Stilwell, on behalf of President Roosevelt, awarding medals to the Chinese officers and soldiers.

Stilwell, with a solemn expression, announced loudly:

"By special authorization of President Roosevelt, General Du Yuming is hereby awarded the Commander-level Medal of Merit!"

"Awarded to General Zheng Dongguo and General Huang Baitao - Officer-level Medal of Merit".

"Awarding the Silver Star Medal to four division commanders, including Wu Sizhong and Bai Yongqiang!"

Then, He Yingqin and Stilwell stood side by side, as if they were engaged in a tacit relay race.

Whenever a Chinese division commander stepped onto the stage, He Yingqin would first present him with the Third Class Baoding Medal or the Fourth Class Yunhui Medal, representing the honor of the National Revolutionary Army, and offer him words of encouragement.

Stilwell then pinned the U.S. Army Silver Star medal on him.
During the medal-awarding ceremony, Stilwell showed no airs whatsoever. Like a kind elder, he personally pinned medals on each general and even called out the names of each division commander. This familiarity and closeness surprised the Western journalists present.

Such a scene, where the highest-ranking generals from China and the United States took turns awarding medals to the same officer, was extremely rare in the history of World War II.

The reporters in the audience were stunned, their pens and cameras flying everywhere.

The medal-awarding ceremony concluded with solemn military music.

Looking at the Dingnan Army generals, their chests adorned with medals from both countries and brimming with confidence, He Yingqin was filled with emotion.

Stilwell walked to the microphone, glanced at He Yingqin beside him, and then looked around the entire audience, his eyes revealing an undisguised pride:

"ladies and gentlemen."

"The victory on Qiongzhou Island once again proves a fact—when unwavering will is combined with modern equipment, and when sincere friendship clashes with brilliant strategy, we will be invincible!"

Stilwell paused briefly, his gaze softening with respect as he looked north, his tone carrying the unspoken understanding and admiration characteristic of old friends:

"Here, I would like to express my special thanks to my best friend in the Far East, who is also my most respected strategic partner!"

"It was him, who, a few months ago, on that simple map table, conceived this audacious island-seizing and landing operation plan with me."

"It was also him who, in order to cooperate with the overall strategy of the Allies, handed over his most elite troops to us without hesitation."

Stilwell waved his arms, his voice booming:
"Many people are surprised by how well we cooperate. I would say it's because we share a common belief and a common goal."

"The wisdom of Chu combined with my determination is the countdown to the annihilation of the Japanese!"

"This victory belongs to the Chinese army, to the Allied forces, and even more so to the unbreakable friendship between me and General Chu!"

The applause from the audience was thunderous and lasted for a long time.

The atmosphere among those receiving medals was exceptionally relaxed and filled with pride.

Du Yuming stroked the heavy U.S. military medal on his chest, listening to Stilwell's effusive praise of Chu Yunfei, and turned to Huang Baitao in a low voice, "Brother Huanran, did you see that?"

"That's what you call skill."

"We fight on the front lines, while you strategize and plan from behind."

Du Yuming remarked with emotion, "Even Stilwell, that American who usually looks down on everyone, has been completely subdued by you, Your Excellency. This is more than just an ally; he's practically treating you as a confidant."

Huang Baitao grinned, straightened his chest, and looked on with admiration: "That's right!"

"It's only because Your Excellency has such influence that the Americans would give us guns and medals, and even stand up for us in front of the whole world."

"Following a leader like this, we can stand tall and feel great!"

Zheng Dongguo, standing to the side, chimed in softly, "Yes, Your Excellency's personal relationship with General Stilwell is our expeditionary force's greatest protection."

With this relationship in place, future supplies and equipment will only increase, not decrease.

In the audience, a Reuters reporter scribbled rapidly in his notebook:
"This scene at Haikou Airport marked the beginning of a new phase in the Pacific War."

The relationship between China and the United States is no longer simply one of aid and receiving aid, but rather that of steel allies who exchange medals on the battlefield and fight back-to-back.

And the unseen war commander has clearly become the central link connecting all of this.

Similarly, this awarding ceremony not only showcased the Dingnan Army's illustrious military achievements to the outside world, but also sent a strong signal to the world.

The relationship between China and the United States is far closer and more stable than the outside world imagines.

This close alliance will undoubtedly become the strongest support for North China and even the entire China Theater.
-
the other side.

The Shandong Anti-Japanese Base Area, the site of the Shandong Military Region of the Eighth Route Army.

In a few simple houses, the flickering light of oil lamps illuminated the solemn faces of several leaders of the Shandong Branch of the Communist Party of China, dressed in coarse gray military uniforms. Rui, the branch secretary, held a newly translated urgent telegram from Yan'an, his gaze sweeping over Li, Chen, and others before him.

"Comrades, a call has arrived from the Central Committee."

Rui's voice was steady and powerful: "The Chairman and the Central Committee are paying close attention to the situation in North China."

"The telegram indicated that the National Revolutionary Army is currently launching a fierce offensive, and the Japanese defense line is on the verge of collapse."

"The Central Committee instructed us: 'Whether it is the Kuomintang or the Eighth Route Army, at this moment, eliminating the Japanese invaders is the top priority.'"

Given the significant success of the Nationalist Army's recent policies on preferential treatment and incorporation of puppet troops, the Shandong Military Region should actively cooperate and launch a large-scale political offensive.

Ryden paused, then read aloud the last core instruction of the telegram: 'Utilize all means to publicize the Nationalist Army's new policies, combine this with our army's 'red and black dot' ledgers, launch a pincer attack from both inside and outside, completely undermine the morale of the puppet troops, turn their guns outward, and end the North China war as soon as possible!'

"Okay!"

Chen was a straightforward soldier. Upon hearing this, he slapped his thigh and said, "In the past, when we were working with the puppet army, some stubborn elements always felt that the National Army didn't want them, and that our Eighth Route Army was being treated 'barely', so they insisted on going down that path."

"Now that's great, with Chu Yunfei's 'Iron-Blooded National Guardian' title hanging up, it's given these traitors a sense of reassurance!"

"As long as they dare to betray us, not only will their past actions be forgiven, but they can also be recognized as martyrs and receive double the compensation. The temptation is too great!"

Li pulled out a document from his notebook and added, "Our previous 'red and black dot' campaign was already very effective in deterring the puppet troops. Now, with Chu Yunfei as an example, it's like a big stick plus a gold bar. I wonder how these puppet troops can hold out."

"Then it's settled!"

Zhu made a decisive decision: "Have the Propaganda Department and the Enemy Work Department take immediate action!"

"Bring out all the 'good and evil records' of the puppet troops that we have in our possession, and make several thousand copies of that 'North China Daily' that records Zhao Dayan's deeds!"

"We must make sure that every puppet soldier in every stronghold in Shandong knows as soon as possible—if we don't turn back now, there will really be no way out!"

……

three days later.

In a remote mountain temple east of Laiwu in central Shandong.

Two Eighth Route Army enemy work department cadres in plain clothes were facing a puppet army company commander who looked flustered and was covered in cold sweat.

"Company Commander Liu, please sit down."

Wang Dahai, the head of the enemy work department of the Eighth Route Army, pointed calmly to the broken offering table in front of him.

There were no offerings on the table, only a thick ledger wrapped in blue cloth and a neatly folded newspaper.

The puppet army company commander, Liu, couldn't sit still. He kept rubbing his hands together, his eyes darting around: "Section Chief Wang, you called me out in such a hurry, are you going to make a fuss about me in that notebook?"

The book he was pointing to was the "Red and Black Ledger," which struck fear into the hearts of the puppet troops in Shandong.

That was a "book of good and evil" specially set up by the Eighth Route Army for the puppet troops.

For each bad deed (such as robbing grain, killing, or informing), record a black dot; for each good deed (such as delivering intelligence, allowing passage, or secretly protecting the families of those resisting), record a red dot.

In the post-war reckoning, those with more red (positive) contributions were rewarded, while those with more black (negative) contributions were executed!

Wang Dahai didn't speak, but slowly opened the ledger, his finger stopping on a name.

"Liu Ermazi, oh no, Company Commander Liu."

Wang Dahai's voice was as cold as ice: "Last month, you led the Japanese to Xiaozhangzhuang to rob grain. Although no one was hurt, that was aiding the enemy and aiding and abetting evil. That's a black mark on your record."

“The day before yesterday, your platoon leader injured a villager outside the stronghold. Although you did not give the order, it was a case of lax management of subordinates, and you should be given a half-baked spot.”

"Going back further..."

"Stop! Stop reading!"

Company Commander Liu knelt on the ground with a thud, pleading with a sob in his voice, "Section Chief Wang!"

"Heaven and earth bear witness, my body is in Cao Cao's camp but my heart is with Han!"

"The fighting is getting intense up front, and the Japanese are pressuring us hard. I have no choice but to go!"

"Okay, get up."

Wang Dahai closed the ledger, his tone softening somewhat: "You know our Eighth Route Army policy: the ringleader must be punished, those coerced will not be questioned, and those who perform meritorious service will be rewarded."

"I've called you here today to show you a way to survive."

As he spoke, Wang Dahai pushed the copy of the North China Daily in front of Company Commander Liu, pointing to the eye-catching headline: "Heroes need not ask about their origins; the iron-blooded defenders of the nation shed their blood in Pei County."

Can you read?

"I recognize a little bit." Company Commander Liu picked up the newspaper with trembling hands.

"Look at this Zhao Da-yan."

Wang Dahai pointed to the horrific battlefield in the photo: "He used to be a puppet army commander, just like you, someone who was talked about behind his back."

"but!"

"He was in Pei County, leading his brothers in a desperate fight against the Japanese!"

"How is it now?"

"Commander-in-Chief Chu Yunfei personally sent a telegram of commendation! He was posthumously awarded the rank of Army Colonel! He was enshrined in the Martyrs' Shrine, truly bringing glory to his ancestors!"

"His wife and children received double the compensation. From now on, when they walk down the street, they will be recognized as the family of a martyr, and no one will dare to look down on them!"

Company Commander Liu's eyes gradually widened as he stared intently at the line of text, as if trying to see through the newspaper.

"To be enshrined in the Martyrs' Shrine?"

He muttered to himself, his Adam's apple bobbing violently, clearly yearning: "Can people like us, who wear dog skins, also enter the Martyrs' Shrine?"

"As long as the gun is pointed outwards, he is a Chinese soldier!"

Wang Dahai slammed his hand on the table: "Company Commander Liu, can't you see the situation clearly?"

"Jining has been flooded, and the Eighth Route Army and the Central Army are launching a full-scale counterattack!"

"The good days for the Japanese are over!"

"Are you still fussing over those few black marks you have?"

"Let me tell you, if you still want to work for the Japanese now, even if you only have one black mark on your record, you'll still die after the war!"

"But if you betray us now and lead your team to cooperate with us, then your half-written record of wrongdoing will be wiped clean!"

"even."

Wang Dahai lowered his voice and tempted, "You also have a chance to bring glory to your ancestors like Zhao Daye!"

Company Commander Liu's breathing became rapid.

On one side were the Japanese, who were destined to perish, and the "black accounts" that could be settled at any time; on the other side were the Eighth Route Army's promise of forgiveness and the "loyal and martyr" title promised by the Nationalist Army's commanders.

For these puppet soldiers who were struggling to survive in the cracks and were despised by others...

The allure of being able to "be a good person" is actually much greater than that of gold bars!

"Section Chief Wang!"

Company Commander Liu abruptly raised his head, grabbed the newspaper, and stuffed it into his coat, a ruthless glint in his eyes: "Don't say anything! I'll do it!"

"I've been wanting to get rid of this dog skin for ages!"

"The Japanese are transporting a shipment of ammunition past my stronghold tomorrow night. I'll take care of them!"

"Consider it a pledge of allegiance to the Eighth Route Army, or rather, to our Chinese army!"

Wang Dahai looked at Company Commander Liu's reddened eyes, nodded in satisfaction, took out a pen from his pocket, and drew a bright red circle next to the "black dot".

"Okay, I'll write it down for you."

"This is a big red dot."

This scene is happening in countless corners of Shandong.

Under the influence of the policy of "spending a fortune to buy horse bones," the morale within the puppet army was like ice in early spring—seemingly hard, but in reality, it had begun to crumble on a large scale. (End of this chapter)