(ECNS) -- Chinese soldiers marched in formation at Tian'anmen Square on Wednesday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
Model soldier Cao Wenbing honors forebears by serving in an era of peace
Cao Wenbing, a post-2005-born private first class, shows none of the immaturity often associated with conscripts. His determination to strive for first place has even inspired his comrades, improving the performance of his entire platoon during training.
Cao comes from a family of heroes. His great-great-grandfather, along with his brothers and nephews, all sacrificed their lives in the 1930s and 1940s. His family background sowed the seeds of patriotism early, nurturing his resolve to serve the country.
After enlisting, Cao joined an airborne unit and excelled in training programs.
Participating in this military parade, Cao told China News Service that he wanted to witness the strength of today's nation on behalf of his ancestors. "It was their sacrifices back then that secured the prosperity and peace we enjoy today."
Qiang soldier pays tribute to motherland on behalf of his hometown
Tang Lei, a soldier of Qiang ethnicity, said during a break in the parade training that when he marched along Chang'an Avenue on the day of parade, he wanted to present his best to the motherland and show her the new changes taking place among the Qiang.
Tang was born in a village in Beichuan County, southwest China's Sichuan Province. On May 12, 2008, when he was just 8 years old, he experienced the 8.0-magnitude Wenchuan earthquake. It was the rescuing soldiers who gave him a second chance at life and inspired his resolve. He said that at the time, he had also hoped to wear a military uniform when he grew up.
After the college entrance examination, Tang was admitted to a military academy. Upon graduation in 2023, he was assigned to an airborne unit.
This year, he submitted a petition requesting to join the parade team and, after multiple rounds of selection, was chosen for the intensive training.
Tang said that gratitude is a virtue deeply rooted in the Qiang ethnic tradition. He hoped to represent his fellow villagers by presenting the best image of himself on the parade ground as an expression of thanks to the nation and the people's army.
Rookie driver strives for higher performance
Soldier Yan Jihui said with a hint of pride on his face that since the start of training, he had always been on the list of the best soldiers.
Yan is the youngest in terms of service among the formation's drivers.
Before enlisting, Yan was a motorcycle enthusiast. In his own words, he has been obsessed with driving since he was a child. The repetitive daily training does not bore this rookie, because "things you love are never dull." He has even developed his own training methods.
During the military parade on Wednesday, Yan and his comrades drove new airborne equipment in perfect unison, passing through Tian'anmen Square with precision down to the millisecond.
These young soldiers embody dedication and patriotism, honoring past sacrifices while showcasing the skill and discipline of a new generation to safeguard China's peace and prosperity.
(By Gong Weiwei)
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