German businessman John Rabe and U.S. missionary Wilhelmina Vautrin played a significant role in establishing the International Committee for the Nanjing Safety Zone to protect civilians when Japanese troops captured the then ROC capital in December 1937. Following the city’s fall, the Japanese unleashed a six-week orgy of violence known internationally as the Rape of Nanjing.
President Ma Ying-jeou is to present the honors to Rabe’s grandson Thomas and Vautrin’s great-grandniece Cindy. The pair is in country at the invitation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to participate in activities commemorating the 70th anniversary of the ROC’s victory in the eight-year conflict.
“Amid the widespread devastation and suffering caused by the Japanese occupation of Nanjing, Rabe epitomized the spirit of humanitarian aid and true nobility by opening his home to more than 600 refugees,” Ma said. “This assistance extended to setting up shelters, raising funds for basic necessities, maintaining order and safeguarding women from the troops.”
Following Rabe’s return to Nazi Germany, Ma said he risked his own safety and stood firm in the face of adversity to expose the horrific crimes of the Japanese army. “This selfless sacrifice earned Rabe a permanent place in the annals of world history, and he will be remembered for his strength of character and exceptional courage.”
Vautrin’s sacrifices were no less worthy, Ma said. “As president of all-female Ginling College, she was an important figure in the creation of the ICNSZ neutral zone. Vautrin accommodated up to 10,000 women on Ginling campus and would patrol the grounds in person, keeping her charges safe from marauding Japanese troops.”
Commenting on the 70th anniversary of the ROC’s victory that helped the Allies win World War II, Thomas Rabe said it is important to remember the past. “Because if people do not think about the past, there is no chance to accept what happened and make friends with enemies.
“Ultimately, peace is the most important goal for all.”
Echoing Rabe’s remarks, Cindy Vautrin said the occasion should honor the lives and deaths of the many people who were killed in the conflict. “It is a great opportunity to show the world how war benefits no one.” (YHC-JSM)
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