2-612-021 - Keystone Archives/Heritage Images

American and Chinese soldiers after the liberation of China, World War II, 1945. Japanese forces invaded China in July 1937. After Japan attacked the US naval base of Pearl Harbour in December 1941 the Western Allies declared war on Japan and provided military assistance to the Chinese. The American air force was particularly heavily involved in supporting their forces in their struggle against the invaders. After 8 years of bitter fighting, the Japanese surrendered in September 1945.