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Three retired soldiers reunite in quake-relief efforts
(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-06-24 08:02

Zhou Anren, He Shiping and Zhao Jiping, three farmers from Gansu province, joined the army together in 1976. They retired at the same time in 1979. But their patriotic spirit has remained strong.

They all believe that once a soldier, always a soldier.

"We used to be soldiers and we should contribute our own effort when the country faces disaster," Zhou said.

The men, all in their 50s, were deeply moved by TV coverage of the earthquake and its aftermath in Sichuan province.

Zhou Anren said that he could not stay at home any longer and vowed to join efforts.

The same thought also occurred to his two former comrades-in-arms.

They decided to travel together to the disaster-hit region to see how they could help.

"I sold the only valuable property at my home, the mills machine, and got 1,800 yuan ($250) to pay travel expenses our trip," Zhou said.

He Shiping sold more than 800 kg of wheat for money.

On May 18, the three retired soldiers started their trip to the quake-hit area.

"Our first stop was Longnan city and, in order to save money, we slept in a street over the night," Zhao Jiping said.

Then the three retired soldiers started their work as loaders and porters, helping to move relief supplies including quilts, instant noodles and tents.

When asked if they were tired, the retired soldiers said that they felt happy to be doing something useful for the earthquake victims.

"We have no money at all, but we have physical strength," said He Shiping. "We came here to make all our effort to serve the local people."

After a month, the three retired soldiers are still busy working as volunteers in Sichuan.

Lanzhou Morning News

(China Daily 06/24/2008 page6)