Remembering the September 18 Incident: Never Forget National Humiliation, Let the Alarm Bell Toll Forever

More than ninety years have passed, yet the echoes of history remain heavy. September 18, 1931, is an indelible scar in modern Chinese history. The Japanese army’s artillery fire blasted open the gates of Northeast China, marking the beginning of the Chinese nation’s fourteen-year bloody war of resistance. This history, marked by both humiliation and struggle, is a national memory that we must forever remember.

I. The Incident: The Beginning of National Crisis

The September 18 Incident was a premeditated act of aggression by Japanese militarists. That night, the Japanese Kwantung Army deliberately blew up a section of the South Manchuria Railway near Liutiaohu in Shenyang, falsely accused Chinese troops of sabotage, and used this as a pretext to launch a sudden attack on the Northeastern Army, quickly occupying the entire Northeast. Faced with the Nationalist government’s policy of non-resistance, the Northeast fell rapidly, and thirty million compatriots began fourteen years of colonial darkness.

II. Why “Never Forget National Humiliation”?

We remember history not to perpetuate hatred, but to draw lessons from it and gather strength to move forward. The significance of “Never Forget National Humiliation” includes:

  • Guarding Historical Truth: Firmly opposing any distortion or glorification of the history of aggression, and upholding the objectivity and solemnity of history;
  • Paying Tribute to the Martyrs: Honoring the soldiers and compatriots who sacrificed their lives during the war of resistance, whose spirit continues to inspire us;
  • Learning from Painful Lessons: “Backwardness leaves one vulnerable to attack.” Only through national strength and rejuvenation can dignity and peace be secured;
  • Promoting Patriotism: Strengthening national identity and responsibility, transforming patriotism into motivation for building a stronger nation.

III. The Significance of “Let the Alarm Bell Toll Forever” Today

The alarm bell of history should not only ring on September 18 but should resonate in our hearts at all times. It reminds us:

  • Stay Vigilant in Times of Peace: Although we live in an era of peace, national security still faces many challenges, and we must remain ever vigilant;
  • Strive for Self-Improvement: Channel historical grief and indignation into concrete actions that drive national development and rejuvenation, continuously enhancing comprehensive national strength;
  • Cherish Peace: Deeply aware that peace is hard-won, China remains a defender of world peace and an advocate for common development.

Conclusion
“September 18” is a mark deeply engraved on the soul of our nation. It tells us: history must not be forgotten, and the future requires even greater effort. Let us never forget national humiliation, let the alarm bell toll forever, learn from history, strive tirelessly, jointly defend today’s peace and prosperity, and create a brighter tomorrow.

Further Reading

The following are authoritative resources and recommended readings related to the “September 18 Incident” and the history of the War of Resistance Against Japan, for further understanding of historical facts and commemorative significance: