Concert honors 80th anniversary of victory in War of Resistance

US Congresswoman Judy Chu, whose father served in the US Army during World War II, highlighted the deep cooperation between two sides in securing victory.

"The victory would not have been possible without the cooperation of the US and China, as well as the sacrifices of American soldiers who fought bravely as part of the Flying Tigers," Chu said. "Some 20,000 Chinese Americans also served our country despite the Chinese Exclusion Act and widespread discrimination."

The concert's finale was hailed as "world-class" by attendees. Alongside the monumental Yellow River Cantata, audiences were moved by American works including the violin solo Theme from Schindler's List and the duet There You'll Be from Pearl Harbor, bridging historical memory across cultures.

Film producer Frederick Golchan said he was deeply moved. "I enjoyed the concert tremendously. There was a lot of diversity, a lot of great talent, and obviously the last piece, the Yellow River, was quite beautiful. It truly honored the commemoration of the war and the liberation of China," he told China Daily.

For many in attendance, the performance underscored how music continues to serve as a universal language of remembrance and peace.

Before the concert, the Walt Disney Concert Hall also hosted the release of The Daughter of the Peace General — Building Bridges Between China and USA, co-authored by Zhang Sujiu and Peter Kjenaas.

Zhang, daughter of General Zhang Zhizhong, known as the "Peace General," has been a community leader in Southern California for more than four decades. She has dedicated her life to strengthening peace, friendship and cultural exchange between China and the US.

"With this book done, my lifetime task is completed," Zhang told China Daily. She explained that she chose to publish the memoir, which contains more than 270 photos, in English to reach a wider international audience. "I hope Chinese Americans and friends from all backgrounds can better understand our shared history and continue fostering long-term friendship between China and the US."

US Senator Bob Archuleta praised Zhang's contributions.

"Her story reflects a life of leadership, perseverance and service to the community. It is not only a personal journey, but also a powerful testament to people-to-people diplomacy. It ensures that future generations will understand the values of mutual respect, collaboration and peace," Archuleta said.

Educator and writer Mark Rafter also shared his admiration for Zhang's memoir. "The more I read, the more it drew me in the behind-the-scenes stories of history, and how she, living in the shadow of her famous father, forged her own legacy in America," Rafter said.

"I believe this book should be in all high schools and colleges. We must never forget the great sacrifices made for what we have today," he added.