Text of the speech given on Tuesday 20th May 2025 at the unveiling ceremony of the memorial on Qingbang Island, Dongji Town, Zhejiang province, East China dedicated to the Chinese fishermen who saved the lives of hundreds of POWs during the Lisbon Maru incident.

Hello, My name is Anthony Jones. I am the Chairman of the Lisbon Maru Memorial Association, here from the United Kingdom. And I am also proud to stand here as the grandson of Thomas Theodore Jones, one of the men who survived the sinking of the Lisbon Maru.

This is not just history to me — it is family, it is memory, it is personal.

We are gathered here today — not simply to unveil a memorial, but to remember a tragedy that happened 82 years ago, in October 1942.

That day, on board the Lisbon Maru were 1,816 British prisoners of war when she was attacked and sank just off these shores. That day, 828 of those men died, and many more never made it home. Their bodies remain entombed in the sea beneath us — this sea that has become their final resting place.

But amid the horror of that day, a light of humanity shone through — the bravery of local Chinese fishermen, who risked their lives to save strangers.

They went out in small boats, pulling men from the water, showing courage and compassion that will never be forgotten.

This memorial we unveil today is not just a tribute to the fallen — it is also a tribute to those brave fishermen, whose actions saved lives and gave hope in a moment of despair.

Before I continue, I would like to share a brief message from Brian Finch — a long-time supporter of our cause and a dear friend to many here in Zhoushan.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I deeply regret that I have not been able to take advantage of the many kind invitations to visit your beautiful islands, most especially for this momentous occasion. Over the years I have made many friends in Zhoushan, although I have met only a few — when a delegation came to visit the UK last year. In my absence I have asked Anthony Jones to pass on my sincere friendship and best wishes to you all."

I know Brian would have dearly loved to be with us today, and I am honoured to pass on his words of friendship and goodwill.

We are also deeply grateful to all those who have a connection to this tragedy — descendants, researchers, supporters, film makers and those who have worked tirelessly to ensure this history is not forgotten. Your dedication helps keep the memory of the Lisbon Maru alive, and your efforts are woven into the legacy we honour here today.

On behalf of the Lisbon Maru Memorial Association, I want to say:

• We are grateful.
• We remember.

And we honour all — both the dead, and the living who kept their memory alive.

This memorial stands as a bridge — between past and present, between China and the UK, between sorrow and solidarity.

To the families of the men who died — we remember with you.

To the people of China — we thank you.

Your friendship, your compassion, and your courage live on in this place, and in our hearts.

May the souls of the Lisbon Maru rest peacefully.

May the bravery of the fishermen never be forgotten.

May this place stand as a beacon of hope — reminding future generations and all who come here, that even in our darkest hours, compassion and unity can light the way forward.

Thank you.