Chongqing - On September 4, 2025, a commemorative event marking the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Stilwell Road was held at the General Joseph W. Stilwell Museum in Chongqing. Under the theme "Retracing the Stilwell Road: Honoring the Spirit of Cooperation and Carrying Forward Sino-American Friendship," the gathering brought together descendants of General Stilwell, U.S. institutional representatives, Chinese officials, and historians.

Group photo of the event guests. (Photo/The Organizer)

The ceremony began with the unveiling of a bronze statue of General Stilwell, depicting him shouldering a carbine, striding resolutely forward. Fifth-generation members of the Stilwell family presented a floral tribute at the new monument.

Unveiling ceremony of General Stilwell's statu. (Photo/The Organizer)

In his address, Mr. Feng Zimin,Deputy Director-General of the Foreign Affairs Office of the People's Government of Chongqing Municipality, highlighted General Stilwell's contributions during World War II. “General Stilwell devoted himself wholeheartedly to the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression - building the Stilwell Road, leading Allied forces in the campaign in Myanmar, and facilitating military cooperation. His work significantly aided the victory of the Chinese people."

Speech by Mr. Feng Zimin,Deputy Director-General of the Foreign Affairs Office of the People's Government of Chongqing Municipality. (Photo/The Organizer)

Ms. Nancy Millward, great-granddaughter of General Stilwell, spoke on behalf of the Stilwell family, reflecting on the general's leadership and his enduring care for soldiers. She shared personal anecdotes from his service in the Philippines, China, and India, noting, "His commitment to soldiers' welfare - from founding rehabilitation camps to instituting compensation for families of the fallen - won deep respect from both American and Chinese troops."

Speech by Ms. Nancy Millward, great-granddaughters of General Stilwell. (Photo/The Organizer)

A donation ceremony followed, during which historical materials were presented to the museum, including wartime letters, archival postal documents, and publications on the history of the Stilwell Road.

The event concluded with a symbolic vehicle departure, launching the "Retracing the Stilwell Road" tour. Two Seres cars set out from the museum, signaling the start of a multi-day expedition through Yunnan province. Participants also visited special exhibitions detailing General Stilwell's life and the museum's legacy. Younger members of the Stilwell family later engaged in cultural and sports activities with students at a local primary school.

From September 5-8, the Stilwell family and other American guests will join Chinese experts in retracing the Stilwell Road across Yunnan. Stops will include the Tengchong Memorial Cemetery, the Western Yunnan War Memorial Hall of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, the Stilwell Road Museum, and the Flying Tigers Memorial Hall. This retrospective journey aims to honor the historical cooperation between China and the United States during WWII and inspire continued mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples.