Commemorative events

The Nanjing authorities and the researchers have maintained strong relationships with Sindberg's relatives, and they have hosted commemorative events, including exhibitions and forums, in China and Denmark.

On Feb 16, 2011, a forum was held in Nanjing to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of the man known as "Nanjing's Schindler".

Despite the recent acclaim, Dai believes that greater efforts are required to help the camp's former refugees and to protect the factory infrastructure.

"Many of the survivors are in their 80s and older," he said. "If no action is taken, they will disappear from this world along with their testimonies and evidence that prove how brutal war can be."

The factory buildings are also in poor condition. There are holes in many of the ceilings, most of the window frames are missing and the walls are cracked and tumbling down. Gunther's former residence was badly damaged in a fire and has yet to be fully restored.

"Those old buildings witnessed the massacre and they should be protected," Dai said.

Contact the writers at cangwei@chinadaily.com.cn