War Flames over Jinniu Lake

In 1937, the Japanese army’s iron heel trampled mercilessly across the land. After capturing Nanjing, the flames of war quickly spread to the Liuhe area, shattering its peaceful way of life. Thirteen-year-old Zhang Dafu had been living a simple, happy life in the beautiful Jinniu Lake neighborhood, surrounded by the scenic beauty of Mount Jinniu. But the Japanese army’s atrocities plunged his hometown into misery. His family was scattered and his village lay in ruins, planting the seeds of hatred in his heart. In 1939, the New Fourth Army’s Fourth and Fifth Detachments advanced into Liuhe, bringing a glimmer of hope. Zhang Dafu resolutely joined their ranks, growing into a fearless warrior through the trials of fire and blood. In April 1941, the Japanese army launched a night raid on Mount Jinniu. Zhang Dafu and his comrades fought back tenaciously with their “plum blossom stake” tactics. He led the charge, braving a hail of bullets as he fought fiercely against the Japanese. At the height of the battle, he watched his comrades fall beside him, but that only strengthened his resolve to fight. In the end, the New Fourth Army successfully repelled the enemy and won a glorious victory. In August 1943, the Battle of Guizi Mountain broke out. Zhang Dafu took part in reconnaissance and luring the enemy, using his wits and courage to draw the Japanese into a prepared battlefield. During the fighting, he held his position and never backed down in the face of the enemy’s frenzied attacks. The enemy’s artillery fire was exceptionally fierce, and the position was repeatedly on the brink of collapse. But with sheer determination, Zhang Dafu and his comrades drove the enemy back time and again. When the Special Service Battalion arrived to reinforce them, Zhang Dafu and his comrades pressed their advantage, routing the enemy completely.