Editor's note:

As Dec 13 was China's first National Memorial Day for the Nanjing Massacre Victims, people from all walks of life in Jilin province remembered the war dead for the period of Japan’s invasion between 1937 and 1945.

Fire fighters visit the local Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army Museum in Tonghua, a city in Northeast China’s Jilin province on Dec 13. [Photo by Chen Zhongren/Jilin Daily]

What they say:

"To remember the history and learn about the Chinese soldiers’ patriotism during the anti-Japan war period gives us strong motivation and inspiration to realize our own dreams and the Chinese dream of rejuvenation of the Chinese nation."

— Jin Meimei, a student from Changchun Normal University.

"That history of Japan’s invasion leaves us with great pain and grief, and only by remembering the history can we better cherish peace."

— Shan Wei, a student from Jilin Agriculture University

"I got to know about the suffering of the nation in that period by searching historical materials. Students like us should work hard and contribute what we have learned for our motherland."

— Fan Yuting, a high school student in Changchun No 7 Middle School

"The Chinese soldiers on anti-Japan battlefields defeated the invaders with gritty determination and indomitable spirit, bringing peace and happiness for us. We should learn from their dedication to the nation and push ourselves to do better in life and work."

— Xu Xiuli, a resident from Baishan city

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