To commemorate the 65th anniversary of the August 23rd Artillery Battle and to promote Kinmen’s unique battle history, Kinmen National Park Headquarters, National Park Service (the Headquarters) held the 823 Night March on August 12 (Saturday), with more than 500 people participating. Through diverse recreational experience content, they learned about the unique battlefield culture and the beauty of Lieyu Island.
The event commenced with a captivating war drum performance by the Honest War Drum Club of the Kinmen Defense Command on the main stage at Donglin Sports Complex. This was followed by a short play centered around the theme of Ju Guang Day, presented by the local performance team from Lieyu, the Taro Island Story Troupe. With the rhythmic beats of war drums, each team embarked on their journey with enthusiasm. Towards the event's conclusion, a band performance was staged on the main platform to recreate the entertainment provided by celebrities of that era to the forces. This not only allowed attendees to gain insight into the traditions of the Kinmen Battlefield from the past but also served as an expression of gratitude to the various groups who have made sacrifices for this land.
In addition, in order to promote tourism in the Lieyu area, a special market was arranged at the Donglin Sports Complex in the afternoon for the public to experience. The meal coupons were inspired by old banknotes that were limited to Kinmen, and people said they were very creative. In addition to the market dining car, a little bee experience (local grocery sales services) was arranged on the marching route, and a unique battlefield-style souvenir "August 23 65th Anniversary Limited Edition Pork Can" was provided. Through an immersive experience, the glory and history of Lieyu in the past were relived. .
The Headquarters announced that this year's night march, which has been held every five years since 2013, marked a significant shift as it took place on Lieyu Island for the first time. This decision was made in conjunction with the opening of Kinmen Bridge, which now connects numerous historically significant military strongholds, inspirational slogans, monuments, and more on the island. These special historical battle sites have been restored and managed by various units and have evolved into must-visit attractions for tourists. Some notable sites include Jiugong Tunnel, Victory Gate, Warrior Bunker, Iron Bunker, and Jiangjun Bunker, collectively referred to as the Lieyu Three Bunkers. Furthermore, due to the participants' strong environmental awareness and commitment to environmental preservation, there was no littering along the route, ensuring that the natural environment remained unspoiled. The event incorporated carefully designed interactive games, transforming the rigorous night march training into enjoyable and immersive experiences. The route also traversed Lieyu's distinctive tank roads, with interpreters providing explanations to help the public appreciate the island's cultural treasures and historical battle sites.