We Talk: Son of American Flying Tigers pilot reflects on enduring bond with China

2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

CGTN Stringer spoke with the son of a member of the Flying Tigers, formally known as the American Volunteer Group, a legendary unit of U.S. volunteer pilots formed in 1941 under the command of General Claire Chennault. Fighting alongside the Chinese people during World War II, they played a crucial role in resisting the fascist Imperial Japanese Army.

Robert Jones' father served with the Flying Tigers. His family runs a business in China, and his mother also resides in the country. Since his parents frequently traveled between China and the U.S., Robert spent much of his childhood in Asia.

"China has an immigrant spirit that we don't have in the U.S.," Robert said. He believes that Americans, Europeans and Latin Americans should visit China to have a better understanding of Chinese culture. He said many American businesses are looking for opportunities in China and hope for more cooperation with the Chinese people.