Society

Cremains of Flying Tigers pilot laid to rest in China

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-05-12 15:48

WUHAN - Some of the cremains of Glen Beneda, an American Flying Tigers pilot, were laid to rest Wednesday in central China where he was saved during World War II.

The cremains were sent by his wife and sons to the former residence of Li Xiannian, a late Chinese president, in Hong'an county of Hubei province.

During World War II, Beneda, then at the age of 18, was part of the Flying Tigers fighting the Japanese aggressors in China. His fighter plane was shot down by the Japanese, but he was rescued by Chinese farmers and then was send for medical treatment in a Chinese army division under the command of Li Xiannian.

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This experience left Beneda with an unforgettable attachment to the Chinese people. In 2005 and 2010, he visited the village where he was saved and former home of Li Xiannian to express his gratitude.

During his 2010 trip, 86-year-old Beneda brought 10 relatives with him even though he was weak after two heart operations. He died from a heart attack soon after he returned to the United States.

Beneda regarded his time in China as precious and wanted some of his cremains buried in the country, said Hennry Beneda, a son of Glen Beneda.

Beneda's story will never be forgotten, said Li Xiaolin, daughter of Li Xiannian.

A documentary recounting Beneda's story in China is currently being made to memorize friendship between the Chinese people and him.