Chen Miao, son of Chen Defa, came to Karamay on Sept 3, the 70th anniversary of the the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. He recalled his father's life.

Born in May 1900 in Zhejiang province, Chen Defa worked hard and joined the Whampoa Military Academy. In 1932 he become a trusted follower of Chiang Kai-shek, leader of the Kuomintang (KMT).

Chen Defa was the commander of the 194 Division of the National Revolutionary Army, the main force of the Battle of Zhenhai. He then served as deputy chief of staff of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps

In the Battle, the Chinese army lost 14 officers and 586 soldiers. In addition, 44 officers and 536 soldiers were severely injured. With this heavy loss, they defeated the Japanese invaders and won the first successful coastal battle to prevent the landing of the Japanese.

He came to Xinjiang in 1944 and never left. Though Chen Defa does not reach the highest rank in Xinjiang's military, he has an important position and high prestige among locals.

Chen Defa died on Sept 23, 1975 in Urumqi. Leaders including then Vice-premier Wang Zhen sent condolences. Before he died he reminded his eight children to "follow the Communist Party and work hard". Six of his children are Party members.

According to Chen Miao, his father led a simple life ad learned a lot of agricultural knowledge. He brought in many good livestock breeds from abroad. He is a candid person and always reminded his children the importance of integrity.

The National Coastal Defense History Museum has a special exhibition to feature his contribution to the country.

Chen Miao was born in 1939 and graduated from the engineering institute of Xinjiang University in 1963. He joined the work force at the Xinjiang Petroleum Administration and served as technical specialist, engineer and senior engineer. He is currently a member of the China Photographers Association.

Chen Defa in 1939, when he was the commander of the 194 Division [Photo/ epaper.com.cn]

Edited by Andrew Ancheta