A force for peace
In addition to two National Day parades in 1999 and 2009, Captain Zhang Hongjie, who has served for 14 years in the brigade, has also participated in parades in Mexico, Italy and Venezuela.
Zhang recalled his experience in Mexico: "Lifting the Chinese flag, a lot of Chinese living in Mexico City accompanied us though the 12-kilometer Reform Promenade (Paseo de la Reforma). We shouted 'Long live China' the whole way.”
Zhang said they had done their best to extend a good image of the Chinese armed forces and servicemen, noting that he had made friends with other honor guards during his visits abroad. "The guards of honor are the envoys of etiquette and civilization for different nations. Through our goose-stepping, we deliver friendship and peace among nations," Zhang said.
Zhang's feelings were shared by Liu, who told reporters that his soldiers were a sign of China’s peaceful intentions. "The PLA Honor Guard has shown people all over the world that we are a force for peace."
Elites with prospects
The Guards of Honor of the Three Services have started correspondence courses for their soldiers and encourage them to take part in examinations for self-education, according to Liu. About 90 percent of soldiers acquired academic certificates during the period of enlistment.
"Among 160 soldiers who retired from military service last year, seven have became public servants, 53 are employed by airline companies and the rest are all employed by large and middle-sized enterprises," Liu said.
When asked what his plan is for the future, Deng Tao replied with confidence, "Men who have been trained on this ground can overcome any kind of difficulty."
