China Honors 2 'Flying Tigers' Veterans

During World War II, the all-volunteer group of American mercenary pilots took on Japanese bombers in its first air combat mission to protect China.

Kimberly Johnson

Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 02:57 PM ET

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‘Flying Tigers’ veteran Mel McMullen was honored in Beijing Monday. [Courtesy: China Ministry of Foreign Affairs]

Key Takeaways:

Two surviving members of the American Volunteer Group (AVG), known as the "Flying Tigers," were honored in Beijing by China Vice President Han Zheng for their historical contributions.
The Flying Tigers, a group of U.S. volunteer fighter pilots, helped China block Japanese expansion in 1941-1942, reportedly downing 297 enemy aircraft.
The recognition highlights the enduring historical friendship between the U.S. and China, occurring amidst efforts to restore diplomatic contact despite current strategic rivalries.

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Two surviving members of the American Volunteer Group (AVG)—better known as the “Flying Tigers”—were honored in Beijing at an event attended by China Vice President Han Zheng.

In December 1941, the group of all-volunteer U.S. mercenary fighter pilots launched a seven-month campaign that blocked Japanese expansion into China. By July 1942, the Flying Tigers reportedly had shot down or destroyed 297 enemy aircraft.