By Jiang Chenglong
China has honored 12 military officers and soldiers as "the most beautiful revolutionary soldiers of the new era" as the country prepares to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army on Aug 1.
The honorees were announced Sunday by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Political Work Department of the Central Military Commission, state-run Xinhua News Agency reported.
Among those recognized are Zhang Cancan, Ma Shaoli, Chen Siqi and Cui Daohu. The group includes outstanding soldiers rooted in grassroots units who contribute to building the military, as well as personnel trained in real combat scenarios and prepared to win on the battlefield, according to the report.
The list also features research experts known for independent innovation, skilled craftsmen unafraid of hardship, and border guards dedicated to defending China's frontiers.
The report said the honorees faithfully carry out missions entrusted to them by the Party and the people, demonstrating the PLA's strong political loyalty and its determination to overcome challenges.