The city of Nanjing thanked foreigners who helped protect Chinese people during the massacre and those who contributed in exposing the atrocities by Japanese invaders.

Six foreign friends have received the Zijin Grass International Commemorative Medal of Peace. Japan’s invasion of Nanjing began in November 1937. Foreigners in the city set up a safe zone for humanitarian purposes.

Among those foreigners was the president of the zone, John Rabe from Germany, who also protected more than 600 people in his home. His grandson commented on his attachment to Nanjing.

“When asked why stay in Nanjing, he said, he lived there for 30 years. Sons and grandchildren were all born and grown up here. And he made many friends. When friends are in trouble, one can’t leave,” he said.