IN the annals of 20th-Century history, a few episodes embody transnational solidarity as vividly as the saga of the Flying Tigers. These American volunteer pilots, formally known as the American Volunteer Group (AVG), took to the skies in defence of China during the darkest days of World War II. Eight decades later, their legacy is not confined to museum exhibits; it is being reinterpreted by a new generation of Americans forging connections with China through education, culture and dialogue.

A bond forged in war: Organized under Claire Lee Chennault in 1941, the Flying Tigers became symbols of courage with their shark-toothed fighter planes. More than military valour, they embodied a moral commitment: ordinary Americans risking their lives to defend a distant nation in pursuit of shared ideals of freedom and resistance against tyranny. This wartime alliance planted seeds of goodwill that continue to flourish. As Chennault himself once reflected, “The friendship we forged in the skies was meant to endure on the ground.” Another veteran later observed, “In adversity, cooperation lifts us higher than any aircraft ever could.” That sentiment captures the enduring lesson of the Flying Tigers: unity in hardship can achieve goals once thought unreachable.

Youth exchanges rekindling old ties: In August 2026, nearly 80 American students, teachers and descendants of Flying Tigers veterans travelled to China for an educational exchange. Their itinerary included landmarks such as the Forbidden City and the Bird’s Nest stadium, alongside visits to the........

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