Xu Meifang’s family in Songjiang District became one of the first families to receive the honor. A medal is now attached on the door of
her apartment.
Xu’s late husband Wang Tuquan, a safety patroller in Rongbei Town of Songjiang, was killed when he tried to catch a thief in 1998. Wang was
posthumously recognized as a martyr in 2001.
After 21 years, Xu still struggled to hold back tears when talking about her husband. “I’m glad that he is not forgotten,” Xu said. “His
spirit will carry on.”
Xu’s son Wang Qiang, who was only 13 when Wang Tuquan died, followed his father’s footsteps and became a community officer.
The city's commission of veteran affairs started collecting data in September last year and established a database of the families of
martyrs, soldiers and veterans.
The commission said “Family of Honor” is more than just a medal to hang on the door, but an inspiration for the public to remember the
sacrifice and devotion that soldiers and martyrs have done for our
society.
