September 3 is the 79th anniversary of China's victory over Japanese aggression in World War II. Commemorations are being held across the country to remember the millions of Chinese troops and civilians who lost their lives in the 14-year war. 

The Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was integral to the global struggle against fascism. Japan's invasion of China began on September 18, 1931. Its troops attacked Chinese barracks near the northeastern city of Shenyang. On September 2, 1945, Japan formally surrendered to the Allied Forces, including China, aboard the USS Missouri, marking the end of World War II. China declared victory over Japan the day after.