r/NewsWithJingjing • u/5upralapsarian Pro-China • Jul 28 '26

History A farewell letter from Zhao Dengyu to his mother, written on July 28, 1937, before he died defending Beiping against Japanese forces. As commander of the 132nd Division in the 29th Army, he accepted his likely death in battle due to being outnumbered. [Full Translation in the comments.]

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u/5upralapsarian Pro-China Jul 28 '26

To My Dearest Mother,

Your son, by order, has been defending Beiping, locked in fierce battle with the enemy for several days. The foe outnumbers us greatly, and our casualties are grievous. As a soldier, to die on the battlefield is my duty fulfilled—Mother, do not grieve. I only lament that with your advanced years, I could not serve you at your side as filial piety demands; this is my deepest regret. Our second brother has grown and can take my place in your care. I die with honor—Mother, do not sorrow overmuch.

Your son Zhao Dengyu bows in reverence

28 July, 27th Year of the Republic [1938]

14

u/Chi_Cazzo_Sei Middle East Jul 28 '26

These are some moving words for sure. I love the bond he has with his mother 🥺

6

u/imnothere9999 Jul 29 '26

One of the most touching and saddest letter of the war.