PolicyBrief
H.RES. 689
119th CongressSep 10th 2025
Expressing the opposition of the House of Representatives to the Chinese Communist Party's "stolen valor" historical revisionism with regards to Allied Victory in Asia, commemorating the contributions made by the Republic of China to Allied Victory, and acknowledging the postwar contributions of the Government of Japan to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
IN COMMITTEE

This resolution expresses the House's opposition to the Chinese Communist Party's historical revisionism regarding World War II, commemorates the Republic of China's contributions, and acknowledges Japan's role in modern Indo-Pacific stability.

Christopher "Chris" Smith
R

Christopher "Chris" Smith

Representative

NJ-4

LEGISLATION

House Resolution Targets CCP's WWII History Claims, Backs Taiwan and Japan

This House Resolution is essentially Congress drawing a firm line in the sand over historical narratives concerning World War II in Asia. It explicitly states the House of Representatives’ opposition to the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) historical revisionism, which it calls "stolen valor," regarding the Allied Victory. The core message is clear: the U.S. government should officially recognize the Republic of China (ROC)—now Taiwan—and the United States as the primary forces that fought Japan in China, while acknowledging Japan's current role as a crucial peace partner in the Indo-Pacific.

The Real Story of WWII in Asia

For most people, the history of WWII in Asia often feels distant, but this resolution brings it right into the present political arena. The resolution asserts that the heavy lifting against Imperial Japan was done by the ROC (Nationalists) and U.S. forces, including the famed Flying Tigers. It cites a 1939 report where the CCP itself admitted its forces suffered only 3 percent of the casualties against Japan up to that point, underscoring the ROC's leadership role. This isn't just about dusty history books; it’s about challenging the foundation of the current CCP government’s legitimacy, which relies heavily on its claimed role in the victory.

Directing Government Agencies to Counter Propaganda

This is where the resolution moves from historical statement to active policy. It calls on the U.S. Department of State to use its influence at the United Nations and other international bodies to push back against the CCP’s historical distortions, particularly concerning UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 (which dealt with China’s representation). More directly relevant to everyday Americans, the resolution strongly encourages the Department of Education, along with state and local school boards, to ensure that history taught in U.S. schools accurately reflects the contributions of the U.S. and its allies, specifically to prevent CCP propaganda narratives from entering American classrooms. If you’re a parent, this means Congress is formally asking educators to scrutinize how WWII history is taught to your kids.

Solidifying Indo-Pacific Partnerships

The resolution also serves to reinforce current U.S. foreign policy. It commends Japan for its postwar contributions to peace and stability, noting its role as a key U.S. treaty ally since 1952. For those working in global supply chains or concerned about regional stability, this is a formal affirmation that the U.S. views Japan and Taiwan as essential partners in deterring threats and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait and surrounding seas. Furthermore, it explicitly supports Taiwan's efforts to build stronger diplomatic ties and participate in international organizations, consistent with the goals of the TAIPEI Act of 2019. In essence, Congress is publicly doubling down on its commitment to its allies and pushing back against the PRC's attempts to isolate Taiwan.