BERLIN, Dec. 13 (Xinhua) -- Thomas Rabe, grandson of John Rabe, has devoted his life to preserving and promoting the extraordinary humanitarian legacy of his grandfather -- a man remembered as the "hero of Nanjing" for his role in protecting civilians during the Nanjing Massacre.
"Through my efforts, I want to ensure that the Rabe family's humanitarian spirit continues to inspire people worldwide," Thomas told Xinhua during a recent interview.
LEGACY OF COMPASSION, COURAGE
During the Nanjing Massacre in 1937, one of the most barbaric episodes of World War II, John Rabe, a then representative of Siemens in the war-ravaged Chinese city Nanjing, set up an international safety zone with other foreigners, and saved the lives of around 250,000 Chinese people between 1937 and 1938 from Japanese invaders.
"Despite his poor health as a diabetic needing daily insulin, my grandfather chose to stay," said Thomas Rabe, "His own home and garden, along with the nearby German school, sheltered 650 people. His actions exemplified humanitarianism, courage, and friendship, which earned him lasting admiration."
John Rabe's diaries remain one of the most comprehensive historical records of the atrocity. In 2016 and 2017, Thomas donated the original manuscripts of his grandfather's 10 Nanjing diaries to the National Archives Administration of China.
For Thomas, his family pride and inspiration were deeply rooted in his grandfather's deeds. To honor this legacy, his book, "Rabe and China", was published earlier this year, documenting four generations of his family's connection to China over 116 years. All royalties from the book are donated to humanitarian projects.
"I would be delighted if many new readers would engage with the history of this book," he said, "so that my grandfather's humanitarian spirit, his understanding of morality and leadership, and his desire for peace can be passed on."
INDELIBLE MEMORY
In 2002, Thomas and his wife established the first John Rabe Communication Center in Heidelberg, Germany. Six centers have since been set up worldwide. "These centers serve as educational hubs and symbols of peace," said Thomas.
The Heidelberg center features a museum showcasing replicas of John Rabe's Nanjing diaries and historical records, offering visitors a glimpse into his story. In Romania, two centers focus on providing humanitarian aid to orphans and underserved rural communities. The Spain center has made efforts to translate John's story for Spanish-speaking audiences and organize international medical conferences to foster cross-cultural understanding.
China hosts two John Rabe communication centers -- the John Rabe and International Safety Zone Memorial Hall in Nanjing and a research and exchange center in Beijing.
"I have proposed creating a replica of the John Rabe House in Beijing," Thomas said, "This would mirror the one in Nanjing, providing an impactful way to educate Chinese and international audiences about John Rabe's humanitarian efforts."
He also envisions a wider global reach for Rabe's story. A 4-episode documentary series with fiction elements titled "John Rabe -- The Light in the Darkness" is finished as a prototype, aiming to put John's life on screen and highlight his outstanding contribution.
"The series aims to inspire viewers with the complete life of John Rabe and the story of courage and humanity of my grandfather during a time of unspeakable horrors," he said, adding that the project is still in search of a producer.
Also, a toy set featuring John Rabe as the main character, along with a small booklet "John Rabe tells stories about his time in China for Chinese children," is under discussion, he said.
FOR GENERATIONS TO COME
Thomas's endeavor extends far beyond preserving the memory of his grandfather. As a 73-year-old professor emeritus of gynecology and obstetrics at Heidelberg University Hospital, Thomas has also made significant contributions to medicine.
In 2013, Thomas joined the international team of specialists at Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, sharing over 40 years of medical expertise with his Chinese peers.
Over the years, he has worked alongside Ruan Xiangyan and other doctors to advance China-German cooperation in gynecological endocrinology and reproductive medicine. He has also helped make substantial progress in clinical practice, teaching, research, and training of his professional fields in China.
His new proposal is the Virtual Academy of Medicine, an AI-powered platform that offers free, multilingual medical training to professionals and students around the world.
"This innovative program reflects the Rabe family's ongoing commitment to serving humanity in practical and impactful ways," he said.
According to Thomas, he and professors of Beijing Union University, where a John Rabe Communication Center was established, are planning a lot of future activities such as publications and conferences.
Looking into the future, Thomas remains unwavering in his mission to preserve and share his grandfather's legacy.
"I'm still working hard to ensure that the bravery and humanity of my grandfather to be a guiding light for future generations," he added. ■