Located in Daishan county, Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, Dayushan Island was the site of a fierce battle during the later stage of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) in 1944, due to its strategic maritime location.

Led by Chen Tiekang, 76 members of the first squadron of the maritime defense battalion of the New Fourth Army landed on Dayushan Island on Aug 21. Upon arrival, they cooperated with residents by sharing food, offering labor assistance, and explaining their mission, quickly gaining the trust and support of the community.

The landing point of the first squadron of the maritime defense battalion of the New Fourth Army on Dayushan Island. [Photo provided by Daishan county bureau of archives]

Their presence was soon betrayed. At dawn on Aug 25, more than 500 enemy troops launched a large-scale assault with a warship, landing craft, motorized boats, and aircraft. Despite being outnumbered, the defenders held out for seven hours, killing or wounding over 80 enemies. Only 33 men regrouped, while 43 were killed in action. The battle has since been remembered as a symbol of sacrifice in local history.

In the 1950s, residents of the island collected the remains of the fallen fighters and laid them to rest in a hillside burial site marked by a stone tablet inscribed with the four Chinese characters yongchui buxiu, meaning "Eternal Glory". Since construction began in 2017, Dayushan Island has become home to a green industrial base for petrochemicals and advanced materials.

The martyrs' monument is seen on Dayushan Island. [Photo provided by Daishan county bureau of archives]

A heritage center preserving wartime documents was also established, featuring images and stories from the 1944 battle. It now attracts thousands of visitors each year, ensuring that the spirit of resilience and dedication continues to inspire future generations.