Over 100 people, including both Americans and individuals from Taiwan, attended a memorial service organized by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in the United States to commemorate the life of Madame Chiang Kai-shek. During the service, the Hwa-sheng Chorus sang "Beyond the Sunset" and Madame Chiang's favorite hymn, "Amazing Grace."
In his remarks at the service, Taiwan's chief representative in the United States C. J. (Chien-Jen) Chen said, "In the 24 days since Madame Chiang Kai-shek departed this life, U.S. media have reported and commented extensively on her death and her life of service. When President Chen Shui-bian transited New York on October 31, he paid a special visit to the Chiang family's residence in order to convey his condolences. And, I personally went to New York, on behalf of my government, to pay our respects to Madame Chiang's family. Chinese-Americans and Republic of China (ROC) nationals attended a magnificent and moving memorial service held for Madame Chiang on Nov. 5 in New York. President Bush and the Department of State issued statements expressing their condolences. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs James Kelly and American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Chairman Therese Shaheen both visited Twin Oaks to sign a commemorative book and pay respects on behalf of their government."
"While Madame Chiang withdrew from politics long ago," Representative Chen said, "her death was noted and her life commemorated by people around the world because she was an outstanding female leader who influenced and shaped history. During her life, which spanned three centuries, Madame Chiang witnessed dramatic changes in China and the world. She participated in the war against Japanese aggression, took part in national affairs during the period of national mobilization against the communist rebellion, and helped President Chiang Kai-shek with the post-war reconstruction of Taiwan. She cared deeply about the well-being of ROC women, servicemen, and dependents. For her determination, intelligence, courage, and grace, she will be always remembered by people at home and abroad."
During the memorial, Ambassador Steve C. M. Hsu, Ambassador James Lilley, Ms. Anna Chennault, Mr. Norman Fu, and Mr. Kent Wang also expressed their admiration for Madame Chiang and said that she would be missed.
