Title: Daughter of Peace General Zhang Zhizhong: Huangpu Military Academy Shaped Father’s Thoughts on Kuomintang-Communist Cooperation
Introduction
In the family home of Zhang Sujiu, the daughter of the renowned patriotic general Zhang Zhizhong, a book titled In Memory of General Zhang Zhizhong sits prominently on a shelf. This book, co-written by Zhang Sujiu and her sister Zhang Suyou, chronicles the life of their father, whose advocacy for Kuomintang-Communist cooperation was profoundly influenced by his time at the Huangpu Military Academy.
The Huangpu Influence
Zhang Zhizhong, affectionately known as the Peace General, began his career at the Huangpu Military Academy in 1924. During this period, Zhou Enlai served as the Director of Political Affairs at the academy.
In Huangpu Military Academy, he got to know Communist leaders, including Zhou Enlai, Zhang Sujiu told China News Service in an interview. My father believed in the unity and cooperation between the Kuomintang and the Communist Party to build a better China.
Zhang Zhizhong’s vision for national unity was shaped by his interactions with Communist leaders at the academy, which played a pivotal role in his military and political career. His belief in cooperation between the two parties was a cornerstone of his philosophy.
Education and National Development
From 1927 to 1937, Zhang Zhizhong dedicated himself to education, serving as the Education Director at the Central Military Academy. During this period, he trained nearly 20,000 junior military officers, many of whom later became key figures in the Anti-Japanese War.
My father was not only a politician, military strategist, and diplomat but also an educator. He was deeply committed to education, believing that the development and prosperity of a nation depend on talent, Zhang Sujiu said. Huangpu Military Academy was a crucial institution for training young military officers, and it was essential in building a competent military force.
Zhang Zhizhong’s experience in Germany, where he studied the training methods of German soldiers, significantly influenced his educational approach at the academy.
**Military Excellence and爱国精神
The graduates of the Huangpu Military Academy trained under Zhang Zhizhong were known for their high quality, discipline, and confidence. Father’s students were very disciplined, paying close attention to their appearance and personal qualities. They stood with confidence, and when in uniform, they always made sure their collars were neatly aligned, Zhang Sujiu recalled. My father was the same; I never saw him in a disheveled state. He always maintained the demeanor of a military officer.
When the Anti-Japanese War broke out, Zhang Zhizhong served as the Commander of the Jing-Hu Garrison Command. On August 13, 1937, the first shots of the Battle of Shanghai were fired at Hongqiao, where he commanded the 9th Army Group in a fierce 40-day battle against the Japanese forces.
My father was a typical patriot. When Japanese imperialism invaded China, he advocated for supporting the anti-aggression war in Shanghai, Zhang Sujiu said. Zhang Zhizhong’s participation in the January 28 and August 13 Battles of Shanghai made him a famous military commander in the war.
**Legacy and Recognition
In 2015, Zhang Sujiu was awarded the 70th Anniversary Medal of the Victory of the Anti-Japanese War. I believe that receiving this honor is a recognition of my father’s contributions to the Anti-Japanese War and my inheritance of his educational philosophy, which I have applied to promote US-China cultural exchanges, she said. This is an honor achieved through the joint efforts of many overseas Chinese, and I accept this medal on behalf of everyone.
Inspired by her father, Zhang Sujiu has been passionate about education and has worked in the field since graduating from Tsinghua University. Currently, she serves as the Honorary Chairperson of the Chinese Association Federation in Southern California and runs an educational foundation for her alma mater, Tsinghua University, in Los Angeles.
Conclusion
The legacy of Zhang Zhizhong, the Peace General, continues to inspire his daughter, Zhang Sujiu, and countless others. His commitment to national unity, education, and military excellence has left an indelible mark on China’s history. Through her work in education and cultural exchanges, Zhang Sujiu is carrying forward her father’s vision for a peaceful and prosperous China.
Views: 0