In the evening of May 26, 1942, during the intense battles on the Burma front, a general, severely wounded by two gunshots and in critical condition, was carried to a mountain village called Maobang. Due to infection from his wounds, he passed away, holding onto his commitment to the cause of resisting Japanese aggression. Despite his fever, he continued to issue military commands, leaving his last order: \"Counterattack! Counterattack! Long live the motherland!\"
This resolute general was Dai Anlan, revered as the \"Seagull General\" and the first Chinese soldier to be awarded the American Medal of Honor during World War II. During the Burma campaign, he led 5,000 soldiers to resist over 20,000 Japanese forces, inflicting heavy casualties and achieving China's first victory on foreign soil, even at the cost of 800 of his men.
Dai Anlan's unwavering patriotism, exemplified by his famous slogan \"for the benefit of the country, I will live or die,\" deeply moved countless Chinese people. Despite being a Nationalist officer, Chairman Mao, upon hearing of his death, mourned and wrote a poem in his memory, the only such tribute Mao ever gave to a Nationalist general. Prime Minister Zhou Enlai also praised Dai Anlan, calling him \"the hero of the Huangpu spirit and the nation's hero.\"
Dai Anlan, born Dai Bingyang on November 25, 1904, in Fenghe Village, Anhui Province, was destined for greatness. At 20, he followed his uncle Dai Ruifu's call and joined the revolution in Guangdong, where his uncle, a former follower of Sun Yat-sen, was serving as a brigade commander. His uncle suggested that Dai Anlan apply to the newly established Huangpu Military Academy. Despite his excellent academic background, Dai Anlan's physical condition caused him to fail the initial recruitment, as he was too thin. However, rather than giving up, Dai Anlan worked hard to build his strength and succeeded in gaining admission to the academy in 1925.
After completing his studies, Dai Anlan quickly rose through the ranks of the military, becoming a distinguished officer known for his courage and leadership. He was a key figure in the anti-Japanese war, fighting fiercely in several major battles, including the Battle of the Great Wall, where he led his troops to hold off Japanese forces despite severe odds. His actions in these battles earned him admiration and accolades from both his superiors and subordinates.
Dai Anlan's military career took him to the frontlines of many significant engagements. In 1939, he became the commander of China's first mechanized division, the 200th Division, and participated in the defense of critical strategic locations in southern China, including the Battle of Kunlun Pass, which became one of the most important victories of the Chinese forces during the war.
In 1942, Dai Anlan was sent to Burma as part of China's Expeditionary Force, tasked with preventing the Japanese from cutting off supply lines through the Burma Road. Despite being surrounded and heavily outnumbered, Dai Anlan and his troops held their ground for 12 days, repelling numerous Japanese attacks and inflicting heavy losses on the enemy. Unfortunately, during the final stages of this battle, Dai Anlan was severely wounded and eventually passed away in Maobang, leaving behind a legacy of heroism and sacrifice.
Dai Anlan's death was a significant loss, deeply felt across China. His story is remembered as one of sacrifice, resilience, and patriotism. His actions continue to inspire future generations, reminding them of the importance of unwavering loyalty to one's country and the profound courage required to face overwhelming adversity. His legacy lives on, not only in the victory he helped achieve but also in the spirit of national unity and strength he embodied.
