China's military personnel shared a deep sense of honor and unshakable resolve as they marched through Beijing's Tian'anmen Square on Wednesday, reflecting on their role in the momentous national tribute.
The grand military parade commemorated the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote address and reviewed the troops, leaving a deep impression on all in attendance.
Service members described the experience as both humbling and galvanizing, a vivid reminder of their mission and the legacy they are sworn to uphold.
"I feel immensely honored and proud," said Ding Hui, an officer of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) who drove the lead vehicle of the equipment parade. This marked his sixth time participating in such an event.
"Over the years, I've witnessed the rapid upgrading of our military hardware and the swift enhancement of combat capabilities. Now, returning to my unit, I will pass on my expertise, train more combat-ready soldiers, and contribute to achieving the goal of building a strong military in all respects by the centenary of the PLA," said Ding.
President Xi's formal commendation of all parade participants sent waves of pride through the ranks, further strengthening their sense of purpose and unity.
For Air Force pilot Long Youfu, flying a Z-20 assault helicopter over Tian'anmen Rostrum was an unforgettable experience.
"It's the highest honor to be part of this parade, accepting the review of President Xi and the Chinese people. I will always keep in mind the mission to strengthen our military and safeguard the magnificent rivers and mountains of our motherland with unwavering loyalty," he said.
"With the highest morale, the most vigorous spirit, and the most resolute strides, we marched proudly through the Tian'anmen Square. Our presence demonstrated both the formidable strength of the people’s military in the new era and China's commitment to maintaining and defending peace," said Zuo Song from the peacekeeping forces formation.
PLA Rocket Force soldier Gao Licheng shared the same deep pride, describing the march as a defining moment in his service.
"Marching past Tian'anmen filled me with incomparable pride. In my future work, I will uphold stricter standards and higher quality in every task to honor this moment."
Yang Yi, a female militia member in the foot formations, highlighted the dual role her unit plays in both peace and conflict.
"We paid tribute to all heroes who sacrificed in the war through our rigorous training. As militia women, we remain 'civilians in peacetime, soldiers in wartime', ready to step forward whenever the people need us," she said.
Xu Yunlong, reflecting on his participation, described it as "most valuable experience" of his life.
"It will inspire me to carry forward this fighting spirit throughout my military career, confronting powerful adversaries with unyielding resolve, and defending our nation with flesh and blood as an unwavering wall," he pledged.
"This parade has been the most valuable experience of my life. It will inspire me to carry forward this fighting spirit throughout my military career, confronting powerful adversaries with unyielding resolve, and defending our nation with flesh and blood as an unwavering wall," he added.
From veterans to young recruits, from ground troops to aircrew, the participating forces spoke with one voice: they carry the trust of the Party and the people, and are determined to honor the memory of anti-fascist martyrs by defending peace with action. Their resolve, forged in the shadow of history, now lights the path forward for China's armed forces.
The CPC effectively mobilized both the military and civilians to bravely confront the enemy during the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression from 1931 to 1945, which was crucial to the country's victory.
Participating troops of China's V-Day parade speak of deep honor, unshakable resolve
Participating troops of China's V-Day parade speak of deep honor, unshakable resolve
