Street Talk

"I still can't forget the time I spent in the army even though I have been working as a civilian for more than 20 years. I miss army life the most on Army Day. Ten years of army life has cultivated in me the personality and integrity that a soldier should have. These traits have helped me a lot in my work and life in subsequent years. I am impressed by the strides our military has made. I'll always be proud that I was a soldier."

Liu Huaijun

Cadre in the commerce administration in Funing, Jiangsu Province

"The strength of our army has increased a lot in the past eight decades. But China still lags behind developed countries in research and development of the latest advanced weaponry. I hope the country can make breakthroughs in some major defense and assault weapons. I also hope the army will always be a people's army and follow the leadership of the Communist Party."

Chen Liangwen

A 25-year-old military fan in Beijing

"As an army wife, I know how much soldiers have sacrificed to fulfil their responsibilities. Most of them are separated from their families throughout the year. Sometimes they face grave danger. I am always worried about my husband, who is far away. But I know the country needs people like him to guard its safety and ensure its prosperity. I am really proud of him."

Wu Jue

Teacher in Changshu, Jiangsu Province

"Being a soldier has been my dream since childhood. The dream came true when I was enrolled in a military college and then became a soldier after graduation. It's true that I have weathered a lot of hardships and have lived a less colorful life than most of my peers. But the army has taught me how to lead a meaningful life. I hope our country can become more prosperous and stable and the military is further strengthened."

Gao Chunming

Soldier in Lanzhou, Gansu Province

"We should commemorate the martyrdom of our soldiers in the War of Resistance against Japanese aggression and also the liberation war at every Army Day. Without their efforts, we wouldn't have the new country. Today's soldiers should be imbued with their spirit. But I am happy to see the living standards of soldiers being greatly improved in recent years, in keeping with the booming economy. I hope today's soldiers will be as strong and unconquerable as their forefathers."

He Sha

Office worker in Shanghai

(China Daily 08/01/2007 page23)