Taiwan's military held a memorial ceremony on Kinmen marking 77 years since the Gukningtou Battle, framing it as proof that unity between troops and civilians can deter threats — a message aimed squarely at today's cross-strait tensions.

• Kinmen Defense Command commanders and local officials honored fallen soldiers at a cemetery ceremony, laying flowers and incense at the graves.
• Officials called the 1949 battle the military's first successful defense of Taiwan, saying it shows that unity and resolve can protect the country from invasion.
• The command said Kinmen's islands, once a battlefront, are now peaceful and prosperous, but remain a frontline symbol of Taiwan's democracy.
• Troops stationed there reaffirmed their commitment to defending sovereignty and keeping peace across the Taiwan Strait.

Outlook: Expect Taiwan's military to keep invoking this battle as a symbol of resolve amid ongoing tension with China.