In the annals of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1931-45), there is one heroic unit that stands out—the New Fourth Army's Liu Laozhuang Company. Eighty-two years ago, 82 soldiers, with unmatched bravery, confronted over 1,000 Japanese invaders in the battle at Liu Laozhuang, Huai'an, East China's Jiangsu Province. They gave their lives, not only to defend their land but to uphold the dignity of their nation, becoming the embodiment of the Liu Laozhuang spirit: "As long as life endures, the fight never stops."
In 1943, the Headquarters of the New Fourth Army awarded this honorary banner, officially naming the unit as the "Liu Laozhuang Company." (File photo)
Today, within the peaceful surroundings of the New Fourth Army Liu Laozhuang Memorial, one person's dedication continues to honor these martyrs—the "guardian" of the memorial, Li Aiyun. Her journey, fueled by a promise made in her youth, has spanned decades and distances, leading her far from her hometown, to the very place where her brother, a fallen hero, rests.
A brother's legacy
Her story begins with her older brother, Li Yunpeng, a commander in the New Fourth Army. In 1943, he and his comrades fought valiantly but ultimately sacrificed their lives during the battle at Liu Laozhuang. Before he left, he penned a letter to his family, filled with hope: "Once the dust settles, I’ll return victorious."
But he never did. His words became a promise left behind—echoing in memory, never fulfilled.
The Liu Laozhuang Company Memorial, honoring the heroes of the New Fourth Army. On the left stands a bust of Li Yunpeng. (Photo: Jiangsu News Broadcasting)
Though Li never met her brother, she grew up in awe of the hero she had only known through stories. In 1963, after hearing the tragic news of his sacrifice, Li visited Liu Laozhuang for the first time with her parents. The scene she witnessed there—thousands of people gathering to honor the fallen—left an indelible mark on her. Strangers, mourning the loss of the 82 heroes, moved her deeply. It was at that moment that she made a life-altering decision: She would one day return to this place and dedicate herself to preserving the memory of these brave souls.
A newspaper clipping from March 18, 1982, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the 82 martyrs of the Liu Laozhuang Company. (File photo)
A life of devotion
In 1969, Li fulfilled her promise. She left her hometown and moved to Liu Laozhuang. The conditions were harsh. She lived in a dilapidated room without proper doors, a far cry from the comforts she had known. But none of that mattered. She recalled her father’s words: "You must be like your brother—fearless, undaunted, and committed to the cause." With that encouragement, she pressed on, no matter the challenge.
Throughout her life, Li turned down numerous opportunities—special recruitment into the army, university scholarships, even offers to return to her hometown for work. Her decision was clear: The place where her brother had fallen, where the 82 martyrs had given their all, was where she needed to be. The responsibility she felt to honor them was far greater than any personal gain.
Li Aiyun speaks to a group of Young Pioneers about the heroic story of the 82 martyrs of the Liu Laozhuang Company. (File photo)
Passing the memory on
In 1976, Li's life took a new turn. Invited to speak at a local school, she shared the story of Liu Laozhuang and its heroes with a new generation. That moment sparked a deep realization in her: The history of these martyrs must be passed on to the young, for it is they who will carry their legacy into the future. From that day on, she became a tireless advocate for preserving and sharing the story. She traveled to schools, communities, and events, recounting the sacrifices of the 82 heroes, ensuring that their story lived on.
As of 2025, Li has held over 2,000 public talks for more than 200,000 people. Her work has transcended mere remembrance—it’s a mission to inspire others with the unyielding spirit of those martyrs. Every year, she brings her daughter to the memorial, hoping that the legacy of these heroes will continue to inspire future generations.
Li Aiyun stands solemnly before the Liu Laozhuang Martyrs Monument. (File photo)
Li's life is a testament to unwavering commitment. Through her, the promise she made as a young woman has been honored, not just for her brother, but for all the martyrs who gave everything. Through her, the sacrifices of those who came before us are never forgotten.