1 - 0.
With the sound of the station whistle, the army slowly stopped at Zhuzhou Station. Then, the officers and soldiers got out of the tank car one after another.
"Wow! This place is so big."
"So many military columns have been brought here, and so many troops have been transported to participate in the battle.”
"This is called mobilizing troops."
"It's time to send troops.”
A few members of the Island Support Team who got out of the car shouted in surprise.
For most of the soldiers, it was indeed the first time they saw such a large train transportation hub. The ground was crisscrossed with railway tracks, and all the troops from the East China region who were heading to the front line gathered here. It formed a strong contrast with the narrow space on the train. It was an eye-opener for everyone. It could be said that it was a magnificent and inspiring painting!”
At this moment, Tao Zhigang took out the map that he carried with him and looked it up."So this is Zhuzhou Station in Hunan Province. It is also the marshalling station that is responsible for the dispatch of vehicles from the south to the north. It is a major hub of railway transportation in southern China, and its location has a certain strategic significance.”
"No wonder it's so big!" Through Tao Zhigang's introduction, the few island support troops just now had some understanding of the geographical location of Zhuzhou Station.
"Comrades, we have now arrived at Zhuzhou Station. The higher-ups have specially set up a military station here to provide a temporary resting place for our frontline soldiers. I hope that everyone can hurry over there to wash up, have lunch, and drink some water to replenish their strength.”At this moment, the platoon leader gathered the troops and informed everyone.
"Oh, so there are military stations along the way. It's quite human.”Tao Zhigang and the other frontline personnel finally understood the reason why their superiors had arranged for them to stand in Zhuzhou, and thus gained a little military knowledge.
Under the lead of the platoon leader, the team passed through a street and arrived at a military station nearby.
The military station was quite spacious. There were already many soldiers from the frontline troops here. They were either squatting or standing. They took turns washing, eating, and drinking water. Then, Tao Zhigang and the others blended into the army and began to wash, drink, and eat. They adjusted their physical strength.
"Sigh! It had been two days and one night, and they had yet to reach the front line in Yunnan. They were really anxious.”
"Yeah, riding on this damn tank truck is simply suffocating. It's better to go to the battlefield earlier and fight with the southern devils.”
"I heard that some troops have already gone up.”
"That's right! If we ride this old carriage slowly, won't it delay our opportunity to go to the battlefield?”
"If we can't chew the bones or drink the soup, that'll be terrible.”
"It can't be that they'll let us go home and become 'heroes running away for nothing'.”
At this time, Guo Yunlong, Pan Yue, Zhao Shuang, Tang Xiaoqiang, and several other comrades in the same carriage came together and started discussing anxiously.
"Alright, don't complain or say strange things on the way. It will affect the mood of the troops. You have to know that the more severe test is still to come.”A company commander of the Steel Saber Company stopped them.
That's right, the more severe test was still to come. In fact, each of them knew very well that they could not be so comfortable at the front line. At this moment, they just wanted to vent their feelings of wanting to fight. They did not expect to be overheard by the company commander of the Steel Saber Company. Therefore, they felt ashamed and lowered their heads.
Then, the depressed Guo Yunlong started to smoke. He couldn't help but take out a cigarette box from his pocket. He looked around but didn't see a cigarette. Immediately, he threw the cigarette box away angrily and found the platoon leader beside him." Platoon leader-"
"What is it?" The platoon leader asked in time.
"I want to take a leave of absence from you and go buy a pack of cigarettes on the street.”Guo Yunlong begged.
"Why, are you smoking again? Where are the two packs of cigarettes I brought?”
"Yes, I gave them all to my fellow countrymen.”
"Don't blame it on others. I think you took it all by yourself.”The platoon leader retorted.
"Isn't it because I'm sleepy from the long ride?”Zhao Shuang quickly found an excuse to avoid him.
"Alright, alright, stop finding excuses. I know that among the few people who came, you, Yan Yinda, are the only one.”As he spoke, Platoon Leader Wei still found Tao Zhigang with a soft heart." Nagging, Guo Yunlong's smoking addiction is acting up now. You should accompany him to buy a pack of cigarettes."”
"Uh, yes!" Tao Zhigang responded quickly.
"Remember not to drag it out for too long.”
"Oh, Platoon Leader Wei still has me. I also want to buy some fruits to quench my thirst in the car.”Suddenly, Pan Yue took the opportunity to come forward.
"Cough! The more you are on the road, the more trouble there is. If it wasn't for the fact that you are going to the front line to fight, I wouldn't have given you any face!”As he spoke, the platoon leader pushed Pan Yue angrily." Alright, go back quickly."”
"Cough! Platoon Leader Wei, you're such a great brother!”Pan Yue exclaimed excitedly. Then, he quickly caught up with Tao Zhigang and Guo Yunlong.
111
After leaving the military depot, Tao Zhigang led Guo Yunlong and Pan Yue to the street. He breathed a sigh of relief as if he had gained freedom and felt much more relaxed. However, they had no time to go shopping. They could only hurry up and buy some urgently needed cigarettes, fruits, canned food, and so on.
"Sigh, isn't this Tao Zhigang?" Gao Jun suddenly recognized her.
"Yeah, what a coincidence." Tao Zhigang was pleasantly surprised as he patted his two comrades on the shoulders."Aren't you 'Advisor' Gao Jun? Aren't you 'Old Borehole' Huo Dayong? It seems that we can't be separated for the rest of our lives.”
Just as Tao Zhigang, Guo Yunlong, and Pan Yue were about to return to the team, they did not expect to meet Gao Jun and Huo Dayong, who had come to Shanghai to join the army but had never had the chance to meet them. Suddenly, everyone hugged excitedly.
"That's right. I didn't expect that we would meet each other on the way to the front line.”Gao Jun was exceptionally happy as he patted Tao Zhigang's chest.
"This also means that our fellow countrymen are fated to be together in this life.”Tao Zhigang couldn't help but beat Gao Jun's chest excitedly.
"Sigh,'Old Muffer', which army are you on?”
"Did you just arrive?"
At this moment, Pan Yue and Guo Yunlong, who had released their embrace, asked Huo Dayong with concern.
"We took a train of tankers on the east side, arranged in carriage number two. We just arrived.”Huo Da Yong answered immediately.
" Sigh, then we'll also take a train of tankers on the east side."
"He's in carriage 12. He just arrived not long ago.”
Pan Yue and Guo Yunlong replied one by one, feeling that something was amiss.
"It seems like, little fatty, big guy, we're probably on the same army.”Huo Da Yong was pleasantly surprised.
"Yeah, pretty much. We're all from the same Shanghai Garrison Command.”Finally, Gao Jun added.
"No wonder it's such a coincidence that we can meet here.”Pan Yue and Guo Yunlong suddenly understood and felt lucky.
"Time really flies. Three years have passed in a flash. From signing up for the army together to signing up for the war together now, they were all like-minded. As expected of fellow countrymen!”Tao Zhigang shook Gao Jun's hand and said meaningfully.
"It would be even better if we could fight side by side at the front line!”Pan Yue, Guo Yunlong, and Huo Dayong also huddled together and chatted happily.
" Sigh, why don't we sit in the small restaurant next door?" Guo Yunlong suggested when he found a nearby restaurant.
"Yes! It wasn't easy for us to meet, so let's have a small gathering here.”
"That's right. If we go to the front lines in the future and fight a war, it will be very difficult for us to encounter such an opportunity again.”
Pan Yue and Huo Dayong also followed suit and picked up Gao Jun and Tao Zhigang one after another. They went to a nearby restaurant and sat down.
Guo Yunlong took the lead and opened a pack of cigarettes that he had just bought and distributed them to everyone. Pan Yue also hurriedly took out fruits and handed them to each of his fellow countrymen. He also asked for tea and snacks for his comrades. The few fellow countrymen sat together and chatted affectionately.
"Gao Jun, why did you bring out the city soldiers this time?”Tao Zhigang took a sip of tea and asked.
"What's wrong? Are you looking down on us city soldiers?" He also drank his tea and asked,
"Oh, that's not what I meant. I just feel that you city soldiers are more pampered than us island soldiers.”
"Who said that we are more pampered than you when we stay in the government office all day long? Don't we often participate in some field operations training? You have to know that we are the special forces of the Shanghai security force. Our military quality is even stronger than yours.”
"Oh, that's right, that's right. Compared to your city troops, our island troops might be inferior in military theory subjects and special skills training. However, compared to the infantry tactics and reconnaissance training, the troops in the city might be inferior.”
Seeing Tao Zhigang and Gao Jun competing in the dark, Pan Yue, Guo Yunlong, and Huo Dayong quickly started to play."Alright, alright, don't fight over who's better here. Let's wait until we reach the southern battlefield to see who can win.”
"That's right. For now, please drink some tea and eat something to preserve your physical strength.”
"Cough! This time, there were quite a number of troops that were transferred over. It really broadened my horizons.”Guo Yunlong, who was sitting at the side, took a puff of his cigarette and sighed.
"It is said that this is a rare opportunity to participate in the self-defense counterattack. The higher-ups have consciously transferred some of the military backbone to the front line to participate in the battle. The purpose is to let everyone experience the life of the battlefield and understand the characteristics of war in a peaceful era.”
"Yes, the higher-ups 'arrangements make sense, but I wonder if we might really be able to participate in the battle?”At this moment, Tao Zhigang, who was scratching the back of his head, had a new question.
"That's right. If we can't participate in the battle and return empty-handed, that would be terrible.”
"That's right. Don't make us retreat when the time comes. If we become 'heroes running away for nothing', we'll make a fool of ourselves.”
Pan Yue and Guo Yunlong were also worried.
"That depends on who is lucky. However, we are special forces soldiers transferred from the Shanghai Guard Force. There is a high chance that we will be sent there.”Gao Jun spoke of himself proudly while patting Guo Yunlong's shoulder and said,""Brothers of the Special Agent Company, try to get up early. "Otherwise, when you become a substitute, you won't be able to chew on the bones and can only drink some soup. Haha," Gao Jun couldn't help but laugh again.
"Sigh, Gao Jun, didn't you say that our group of people who participated in the battle seemed to be the first echelon?”
"Yeah, they'll let us go first, right?”
Tao Zhigang and Pan Yue couldn't help but ask when they heard Gao Jun's words.
"Can we be counted as the first echelon or the second echelon? I can't say for sure, but you'll know when we get to the front line in Yunnan. However, as far as I know, quite a few troops have already been transferred over. Some of the infiltration troops might have already sneaked into the Southern Kingdom to take action in advance.”Speaking of this, Gao Jun thought of something and said to Tao Zhigang,"Zhigang, do you still remember Wang Baoguo who studied with us in the past?”
"Oh, I remember. When I was in the fifth grade of elementary school, we even fought for a table tennis racket. Haha, I heard that he also became a soldier when he graduated from high school.”
"Yes, I heard that he was sent as the vanguard this time.”
"Wow! Our old classmate is so awesome."
"In that case, we're still behind them.”
"Then can we still fight?”
Guo Yunlong and Pan Yue, who were surrounding him, looked at Gao Jun and asked with concern.
At this moment, Gao Jun analyzed like a staff officer,"Well, that will depend on the situation at the front. If this is a conventional war and we insist on pushing into the depths of the South until we take Hanoi, then our Shanghai frontline troops still have a chance to participate in the battle. On the other hand, if this was just to achieve the goal of teaching the southern invaders a lesson and we decided to end the battle as soon as possible, then our Shanghai vanguard troops would very likely be pushed to the side.”
"Hearing this, everyone seemed to be confused.”
Just like that, the few comrades from the same hometown took advantage of the time when they met each other and chatted with relish. They were very engrossed, especially when they talked about the battle at the front line. They were filled with excitement and blood boiling, so much so that they forgot to return to the team in time, forgot that the army was about to depart, and forgot that delaying the battle was a taboo against military discipline.
One, two…
"Cough! So you guys ran here, causing me to look everywhere! The company asked me to inform you to return to the army immediately. The army is about to depart. Everyone is waiting for you.”At this moment, Tao Zhigang's Steel Knife Company's communicator came over, panting.
"Ah, I was so busy talking about going to the front line that I forgot to gather and get on the bus.”Gao Jun immediately looked at his watch and blamed himself.
"Yeah, this is bad. I'll definitely be cursed when I go back.”Tao Zhigang, who realized the seriousness of the matter, immediately felt uneasy.
"Cough! How could you be so muddle-headed? What time is it now? Do you still have the time to sit here and have a discussion? Do you know the departure time set by the higher-ups? The entire army is only missing you generals.”
"That's right! This is a big problem." Guo Yunlong realized that he was the one who had caused the incident and was shocked.
" It's all our fault. We didn't return to the team in time and made everyone wait anxiously..." Huo Da Yong quickly reflected on himself to the reporter as he took out some money to pay the bill...
"Uh, I was the one who invited them, so I'll pay for it.”Guo Yunlong, who was holding Huo Dayong back, quickly took out the money.
"Aiya, it doesn't matter who pays the bill. There's no need to be polite between comrades.”However, Huo Da Yong, who was unwilling to compromise, still insisted on paying the bill.
"Alright, let's not argue anymore. Let's hurry up.”Seeing this, Tao Zhigang, who was burning with anxiety, quickly urged,
"There's no need. You're all going to the front line and donating for the country. How can we have the cheek to charge you for your tea money?”Seeing Guo Yunlong hand over the money, the restaurant owner had already thought about it and politely declined.
"No, Boss. Even if we're going to the front line, we still have to remember the three rules and eight precautions. We can't casually violate the interests of the masses.”Guo Yunlong put the money on the table and rushed out of the door with everyone.
Under the lead of the communications officer, Gao Jun, Tao Zhigang, and the other six people rushed towards the gathering team that was supporting the battle and the army that was ready to go.
113
On the platform in Zhuzhou, they could see that the Shanghai vanguard troops parked in the east were starting their engines. The front and back of the army were already sending out flag signals. The army was about to set off. Everyone's anxious heart was about to rise to the tip of their throats. At this moment, Gao Jun, Tao Zhigang, and the other six people led by the messenger finally appeared in front of everyone.
As Gao Jun, Huo Dayong, Tao Zhigang, Guo Yunlong, Pan Yue, and a few other people who had almost fallen behind entered their respective carriages with sweat all over their heads, the military train began to officially leave the Zhuzhou platform with the sound of the whistle and continued to move towards the border of Yunnan.
The commander of Steel Knife Company, who had been waiting in carriage No. 12, glared angrily at Tao Zhigang, Guo Yunlong, Pan Yue, and the other three who had boarded the carriage and began to reprimand them."Look, you guys were the ones who heard the grumbling when we went down to the military station. Now, you guys are the ones who are late to gather and get on the bus. What's going on? Were they afraid of the battlefield and wanted to run away?”
"That's not true! He was afraid that if he went up too late, he would not be able to fight.”Tao Zhigang muttered with a wronged tone.
"Then how do you know we're late and won't be able to fight?”
"I heard that some troops have already gone up. We might not be considered the vanguard.”
"So you guys want to get emotional, right? Let me tell you, the 'counterattack' has only just begun. We came at the right time. As long as we can remain calm and be fully prepared for battle, there is a possibility that we will be sent out at any time.”As he spoke, the Steel Saber Company commander turned to everyone and reminded them," For this reason, in connection with what happened to Tao Zhigang and the others today, all of us should take this as a warning. On the way to the front line, don't let your guard down or have the thought of driving a small car. We can't delay the opportunity. Otherwise, if there's a mistake, no one can afford it.”
At this moment, Tao Zhigang, Guo Yunlong, and Pan Yue felt very guilty and lowered their heads, not daring to say another word.
" Sigh, Tao Zhigang, earlier in the military depot hall, Guo Yunlong, Pan Yue, and the others requested to take leave to buy some things on the street. I even specially sent you to watch over them and told you to come back as soon as possible, but you didn't mention bringing them back earlier. Instead, you were left behind. Even I was criticized this time.”Following that, the platoon leader who was sitting in the carriage also complained in annoyance.
"Platoon Leader Wei, I'm really sorry for causing you trouble this time.”Tao Zhigang felt bad and could only carefully accompany the platoon leader.
"Fortunately, the higher-ups haven't noticed this matter yet, but you have violated military discipline. The nature of this is very serious. For this reason, I order the few of you who have fallen behind to write a written review as soon as possible to deeply reflect on your disciplinary actions, especially the unstable thoughts and emotions that were exposed on the way to the war.”In the end, the commander of Steel Saber Company announced solemnly,""Even if you hand it in, the company branch will consider it and deal with it as appropriate.”
"Tao Zhigang, Guo Yunlong, Pan Yue, did you all hear that?”In order to implement the decision of the company branch in time, the platoon leader repeatedly urged the three people who almost fell behind,"You have to reflect deeply on your own problems and write a written review as soon as possible."
"Yes, sir! Understood." Tao Zhigang seemed to be in pain as he replied with a choked voice.
Guo Yunlong and Pan Yue both felt heavy and regretful. They really shouldn't have put on such a thrilling scene.
As the military line sped forward at full speed, the figure of Zhuzhou Station finally faded out of the sight of the frontline fighters. However, the thrilling scene that happened at Zhuzhou Station left a deep mark on Tao Zhigang and the others. Then, the army began to enter the Xiang-Qian and Gui-Kun lines, like a sharp sword pointing straight at the front line in Yunnan.
As they had arrived in the southwest region of our country, most of the troops were passing through mountains and ridges. Sometimes, they would enter long tunnels, sometimes, they would break through layers of clouds and fog. The soldiers who were sitting in the carriages were also brought into a hazy and sleepy state. Taking advantage of this opportunity, the company allowed everyone to take a break to recuperate and preserve their strength.
At this moment, Tao Zhigang, who was not sleepy at all, was still reflecting on the above disciplinary actions. He hurriedly wrote a written self-reflection. Then, he came to the window of the carriage with a feeling of attachment to his motherland. Once again, he enjoyed the beautiful rivers and mountains that flashed past his eyes. He could not help but think of a poem by Yue Fei, a famous patriotic general in the Song Dynasty. He could not help but recite it excitedly.
" I'm so angry that my hair stands on its crown. The rain stops by the railing.
He raised his eyes and let out a long howl towards the sky.
In his thirties, fame and glory were mixed with dust and soil,
eight thousand li, the road is cloud-like and moon-like.
Don't let your youth's hair turn white and you grieve in vain.
The shame of Jingkang has not been avenged.
When will the hatred of courtiers disappear?
He drove a long chariot to break through the gap of Helan Mountain.
With great ambition and hunger, I eat the meat of Hu and Krupp,
laughing and chatting, thirsty to drink Xiongnu blood.
To clean up the old mountains and rivers from the beginning, to the sky watchtower.”
After reciting the poem, Tao Zhigang took a deep breath of the fresh air that seeped in through the window. He seemed to feel much more cheerful.
114
Carrying the memories of Tao Zhigang and Gao Jun along the way, the train passed through Pingxiang, Xinyu, Yingtan, and arrived at Shangrao City in Jiangxi Province.
"Sigh, when I think back to the thrilling scene that happened after I went down to Zhuzhou Military Station, it still makes me feel a lingering fear.”At this moment, Tao Zhigang took two sips of tea in a row and sighed as he moistened his dry throat.
"Yes, I remember that after we went back, Huo Da Yong and I were given a warning by the company.”Gao Jun also told Tao Zhigang frankly.
"Aiya! Why was it the same as what we did? Guo Yunlong, Pan Yue, and I were also given a warning by the company.”According to what Gao Jun said, Tao Zhigang was surprised to find that the two companies 'handling of the situation was exactly the same.
"Fortunately, the company didn't let the higher-ups know. Otherwise, they would have been even more unlucky.”Gao Jun added.
"However, I think it was worth it. Fortunately, we met by chance and met our fellow countrymen.”
"Yeah, I remember how hard it was to get through this life as a soldier.”Finally, Gao Jun took a sip of tea and concluded. Then, Gao Jun looked at his watch. It was already past 22 o'clock in the evening."Oh, Zhigang, it's getting late. Let's sleep for a while.”
"Uh, okay, you go to sleep first. I want to sit quietly for a while.”Although it was tiring to ride in the car continuously, Tao Zhigang felt emotional because he was facing the turning point of his retirement from the military, and he was very attached to his life as a soldier. He also happened to meet his former comrades and chatted along the way, causing him to lose his sleepiness. He was immersed in the memories of his past military years, especially the extraordinary battles he had participated in the Central South Counterattack.
115
After Tao Zhigang, Guo Yunlong, Pan Yue and the other two experienced the lesson of almost falling behind and accepted the severe punishment of the company branch, they continued to follow the main force of the Yunnan frontline to the Central South border. However, when they arrived at the military gathering place near the front line and entered standby mode, they realized that the situation was indeed as Gao Jun had analyzed when he arrived at Zhuzhou Military Station: "If we decide to end the battle as soon as possible just to teach the southern invaders a lesson, then our Shanghai vanguard force will most likely be pushed to the side.”
As a result, apart from the troops from the other provinces and a small number of soldiers from the Shanghai army, including Gao Jun and Huo Dayong, who were deployed, most of the remaining soldiers were arranged to move strategically. They retreated north to the China-Myanmar border (i.e., to the Fugong border area in Yunnan) to strengthen the defense of the northwest border. This would deter the Polar Bears and ease the pressure of the North-South pincer attack on us.
At this point, Tao Zhigang finally understood. Although they had arrived at the Yunnan frontline, they were not really sent to fight. While he was angry, Tao Zhigang felt relieved. His nerves that were tense from fighting the war finally eased a little. At the same time, he thought of telling this news to his parents and siblings at home as soon as possible so that they could put down their worries as soon as possible. However, The reality of war was cruel. No troops or individuals were allowed to communicate with the outside world while they were at the front line.
116
In fact, as early as the second half of 1978, when Tao Zhigang signed up for the 'self-defense counterattack' in Hengsha Island, his parents were already aware and worried.
As the saying goes,"A child travels thousands of miles, and his mother worries."”Moreover, the war was brewing. They kept hearing from the newspapers and radio that the southern devils were provoking and causing bloodshed in our border areas, causing the war to escalate and the situation to worsen. Our government officially announced that they would launch a " self-defense counterattack " against the south. Tao Zhigang's parents were also worried for their son who was in the army.
In particular, apart from going around asking about the war situation at the Central South border, Mother Tao would often urge Father Tao to go to the unit to check the letters sent by his son from the army.
"Back then, I told him that he had good grades in school and wanted him to go to university or something, but you insisted on supporting him to sign up for the army. You said that this was a sign of improvement in his thinking.”On this day, when the impatient Mrs. Tao heard the news report about the "counterattack" in the south, she finally couldn't help but run home and fight with Mr. Tao.
"Sigh, don't be too nervous. Didn't the 'counterattack' just start? How can you be so sure that he has been sent up and won't be able to come back?”Father Tao, who was born with a simple and honest temperament, also felt angry because of Mother Tao's nagging.
"I haven't received a letter from him for many days. I'm afraid he's most likely been sent up..."
"Even if they were sent up, it doesn't mean that they won't be able to come back later. Moreover, the child participating in the 'self-defense counterattack' is also bringing glory to our parents and contributing to the country.”In response to Mother Tao's uneasiness, Father Tao pretended to calm down and comforted her.
"Although my thinking is not as advanced as yours, I am not against him participating in the 'self-defense counterattack' and contributing to the country. In addition, I also know that the child is ambitious and has made contributions to bring glory to our parents. However, he is still the eldest son of our family. Considering that both of us are not in good health, especially since I have a heart disease and can't do heavy work, I have to go to the hospital often for treatment. In addition, there are two younger ones at home who are studying. It's really too much of a burden to rely on your tens of yuan.
So I wanted to hope that he would come back early to help my family. Now that he has gone to the front line, wouldn't it break my wish and break my heart?”After a short pause, Mother Tao, who was in a dilemma, rubbed her red eyes and continued,"Besides, he and the Yao family's girl have already developed to the point of discussing marriage and price. They have to come back at the end of the year to settle the marriage registration procedures. If he really goes to the front line now, how are we going to explain to them?”
"Don't be so anxious for the time being. Perhaps they haven't really sent them up yet. Let's wait and see.”Seeing Mrs. Tao's sad tears, Mr. Tao, who couldn't think of a better way, could only pick up some nice words to comfort her.
"Let's wait and see. It's been so many days, but we haven't received any news.”As she spoke, Mother Tao became impatient and pushed Father Tao."No, you still have to go to the field to find the leader of the organization and ask them about my son's situation in the army. Also, go to the mail room to check if there are any letters from my son.”
"Haven't we already searched the venue? Why do we still have to search again?”Mr. Tao asked Mrs. Tao impatiently.
"Why? You don't care about your son's big matter. Are you afraid of ruining your face?”Mrs. Tao then pushed Mr. Tao."Go, go quickly."
"Okay, okay, okay. I'll go, I'll go." After Mother Tao's repeated urging, Father Tao, who had made a compromise, had no choice but to get up and go to the headquarters.
Chapter 117
Coincidentally, when Mr. Tao arrived at the reception room, he received a letter from the army with a public stamp. He picked up the familiar " Shanghai Police District Hengsha Island Garrison 5th Regiment Special Agent Company " address and finally believed that it was a letter from his son.
However, he did not know that this was a letter that his son had written before he was sent to Yunnan to participate in the war. Because it involved the military secrets of the troops during the war, he was not allowed to communicate with his family for the time being. As a result, it was delayed until now.
Even though Father Tao had received a late letter from his son, and he didn't know that it was a farewell letter from his son before the battle, it was an extremely important matter to Father Tao and the Tao family, who had been looking forward to it for a long time.
At this moment, Father Tao thought of Mother Tao, who was anxious at home. He wished he could immediately hand over this letter to her so that Mother Tao, who had been anxious and uneasy, could calm down. Therefore, he did not care about resting and quickly picked up the letter and rushed home excitedly.
118
"A letter, a letter from my son!" Father Tao, who hadn't even stepped into the house, began to shout from afar, panting.
"It's true. Did our son really write a letter?”At this moment, Mother Tao, who had been waiting at home to hear Mr. Tao shouting about her son's letter, was overjoyed. She dragged her weak body and hurriedly came out to welcome him. Hurry up and show it to me."
Looking at Mrs. Tao's surprised expression, Mr. Tao handed over the letter.
Mrs. Tao took the letter and carefully examined it. It was as if her son had come to her side. She touched the letter and was reluctant to let go. After a while, she came back to her senses and urged Mr. Tao,"Gang Zi's dad, read it out for me!”
"Oh, okay!"
At this moment, Father Tao, who had entered the hall and sat down, carefully opened the letter. Then, he began to read it seriously to Mother Tao. As Father Tao read the language of the letter, it was as if his son's voice echoed in their parents 'ears.
"Dear Dad, Mom, and Sister-in-law,"
I'm sure you've all heard about it from the radio and newspapers a few days ago. The southern bullies are constantly provoking us at the borders of Guangxi and Yunnan. They invade our territory, plant mines, kill and injure our border residents and livestock, and even open fire to destroy our villages, school buildings, and kill our border guards to cause bloodshed. This is intolerable!
Now that our country's government has officially announced that we will launch a self-defense counterattack against the southern countries, I am glad that I have also been selected this time..."
"Hey, wait a minute. The child you mentioned just now has also been selected?”At this point, Mrs. Tao suddenly interrupted Mr. Tao. She couldn't believe her ears and asked nervously,
"This time, he... he was also selected to participate in the self-defense counterattack.”At the same time, Mr. Tao, who was a little shocked, told Mrs. Tao.
"Sigh! This is true, my child. There will be bloodshed and sacrifices at any time when you go to the front line. This time, you will have to pay the price with your life.”Mother Tao couldn't help but feel worried.
"You're so cowardly. You can't possibly ask him to be afraid of death and retreat at the last minute, right?”At this moment, Father Tao was also unable to control his emotions when his son was selected to participate in the self-defense counterattack.
"I'm a coward. Did I call him a coward?”Hearing Mr. Tao's mocking words, Mrs. Tao argued indignantly," I'm not like you men. After all, I'm a woman and his mother. How can I not have any worries? As the saying goes,'mother and son are connected by the heart'.”
"Yes, I can understand what you're saying, but you have to wait until I read the child's letter to you.”Mr. Tao said sympathetically when he heard Mrs. Tao's aggrieved tone. Then, he continued to read it to Mother Tao. Suddenly, his son-like voice echoed in their parents 'ears again,"
"Dad, Mom, I'm sure you can understand and support me when you know that I was chosen to participate in the self-defense counterattack!？As the saying goes: "To protect the homeland from invasion and to prevent the loss of the people's property, as soldiers, we should be the first to stand out and let the motherland and the people choose us. We should charge into the battlefield without caring about our own safety and sacrifice our lives to make contributions to the party and the people. This is the true meaning of being a soldier. Moreover, when we go to the front line, it is also me who accepts the organization's test and works hard to create conditions to join the party on the line." It was the best opportunity to realize his lofty ideals in life.
Dad, Mom: Please rest assured. The party and the country are commanding us from above. Behind us, hundreds of millions of soldiers and civilians are supporting us with all their strength. In front of us, there are all the major troops from the entire army working together. I believe we will definitely be able to defeat the invaders from the southern countries!
If I really have to sacrifice myself on the battlefield this time, then I'll ask the army to bring my corpse back to the motherland for burial. When the time comes, please don't be too sad. Don't you have your sister-in-law at home to accompany you? If I can still return to my hometown alive in the future, I will wipe away your tears and show you my filial piety..."
" This child's letter doesn't look like a letter from home. It's more like a farewell letter. It really breaks my heart…" Mother Tao's tears flowed down her face as she sobbed.
Even though Father Tao felt terrible in his heart, he still insisted on reading the entire letter. It was as if Tao Zhigang's voice continued to echo in their parents 'ears.
" Please forgive your son for being unfilial. He left you and came thousands of miles away in your lifetime, but your son did this to make you proud and to win glory for you...
Alright, it's late at night and we're about to set off at dawn. It's too late to say hello to you before we leave. I can only send a letter to kneel and say goodbye to you two elders. Finally, please accept my quote of the most popular song, Goodbye! Mother's song as my farewell:
'Goodbye! Mother,
The bugle has blown, the steel gun has been polished,
The luggage was ready, and the troops were about to set off.
Don't cry quietly,
Don't worry about him.
When I return from the battlefield,
He came to visit his dear mother again.
When I return from the battlefield,
He came to visit his happy mother again.
Ah, ah, I wiped away my mother's tears.
Goodbye! Mother,
Look at the camelia in bud, ready to bloom,
How could he let wolves trample on him?
If I die gloriously in battle
You will see blooming camelia;
If I die gloriously in battle
You will see beautiful camelia.
Ah, ah, the camelia will accompany my mother.
Ah! Ah! The bugle has blown,
The steel spear is polished, the luggage is ready,
The troops had set off.
Goodbye! Mother!
Goodbye! Mommy!"
After hearing her son's letter, Mother Tao kept wiping her eyes. She seemed to be unwilling to believe it and asked Father Tao again,"Is this true? Was the child really sent to the front line?”
"What, you still don't believe me? This was a handwritten letter from the child. How could it be fake?”Mr. Tao once again held the letter in front of Mrs. Tao to confirm.
"Then wouldn't we have to sacrifice our lives if we go to the front line? "Zhigang's father…" Mother Tao grabbed Father Tao's hand worriedly.
"Then what are you afraid of? It's not just our family's children. The children of other families can go up. How can our children pretend to be cowards! Moreover, didn't Zhigang also say in his letter that he could rest assured that they had the party and the country sitting above them to command them, and behind them were hundreds of millions of soldiers and civilians who were fully supporting them. In front of them were all the major troops from the entire army who were cooperating with them. I believe that there won't be any major problems when they go up. In the end, they will definitely win this battle and return triumphantly.”
Through Mr. Tao's persuasion and persuasion, Mrs. Tao finally received some comfort and felt much better.
。After reading their son's letter, Mr. and Mrs. Tao finally understood their son's situation in the army. After that, they prayed and wished their son well in their hearts.
119
After the train entered the Huadong Plain section, it seemed to have entered a fast lane. Compared to the previous journey between Yungui, Sichuan, Chongshan, Junling, it was even faster.
At this time, Gao Jun, who was sitting in the car, had already woken up after a night of rest and was waiting beside Tao Zhigang, who slept late. Looking at his tired appearance, Gao Jun couldn't bear to wake him up in advance, wanting him to sleep as much as possible. However, when he saw the train attendant pushing a lunchbox from the aisle, he had no choice but to wake Tao Zhigang up and buy him a lunchbox."Zhigang, wake up. It's noon. It's time to eat!”
"Uh, I slept late last night. I slept so hard that I didn't even wake up.”Tao Zhigang rubbed his sleepy eyes and said embarrassedly when he heard Gao Jun.
"Yes, it's time for lunch. Otherwise, I wouldn't have woken you up. He had to eat on time during the journey, or else he would starve.”As he spoke, Gao Jun placed the lunch box he had bought on the coffee table in front of Tao Zhigang."Here, this is the lunch box I ordered for you. Go wash up and eat quickly when you come back.”
"Oh, thank you!" Then, Tao Zhigang quickly went to the washroom to wash up and came back. He finished his lunch box with Gao Jun. Finally, he made two cups of tea for Gao Jun and himself and sat down.
As the train got closer and closer to Shanghai, Tao Zhigang couldn't help but recall the harsh test he experienced when his troops in Shanghai started to set off a "self-defense counterattack" campaign.
One, two, zero.
In the second half of 1978, Tao Zhigang, who was in the Special Agent Company of the 5th Regiment of Hengsha Island Garrison in Shanghai, was about to complete his three years of military service. He had just returned from training with the company's reconnaissance team at Chongming Island. He had already begun to learn about the friction dispute between the Central and Southern border areas.
"The southern bullies have been constantly harassing and provoking the border areas of Guangxi and Yunnan. They have secretly planted mines, killed and injured our border residents and livestock, opened fire on our villages and schools, and even killed our patrol officers. They have caused bloodshed, causing the border soldiers and civilians to be extremely indignant and the people of all walks of life to be filled with righteous indignation! The entire army was filled with anger! As a result, the government of our country endured it again and again until it couldn't bear to wait for the news...
Faced with the smoke of war and the constant assault of the war, Tao Zhigang began to feel that they were about to face a new life challenge and test. At the same time, it made him realize that his promise to his lover, Yao Cuiping, at the end of his three-year military service at the end of the year, that he could use the opportunity of taking home leave to settle the marriage registration procedures with her, was about to come to naught. It would eventually be difficult to fulfill it.
As the situation in the border areas of Guangxi and Yunnan became more and more tense, the atmosphere of the war between China and South Africa became more and more intense. Following that, Tao Zhigang and all the officers and soldiers of the Special Agent Company were fully immersed in the atmosphere of understanding the situation at the border of China and South Africa before the war. Tao Zhigang and the soldiers were so angry that they were rubbing their fists and grinding their teeth. They wished they could rush to the border of South China and give these little devils a good beating! However, there was no order from the central government. The soldiers were deeply worried and could not understand it, and they were helpless.
In order to guide the majority of the commanders and soldiers to report the correct attitude and maintain a calm mind, the leaders of the island army regiment's party committee and leaders also actively arranged a series of organizational learning and discussion activities. They also carried out reading newspapers and listening to radio broadcasts to further unify everyone's thinking and understanding.
On this day, Tao Zhigang's special agent company organized a new round of learning and discussion.
"Recently, the leaders of the Southern countries, Li Sun, Wu Yuanjia, and Wen Jinyong, with the support of the Su Xiu, have become enemies with the people of China. They have been encroaching on our territory, driving away the overseas Chinese, forcefully capturing and burning the border residents, firing at our Guangxi and Yunnan territories, destroying our school buildings and villages, and at the same time, they have secretly sent secret agents deep into our border areas to plant mines, killing and injuring our border residents and livestock. They have even attacked and killed our patrolling personnel, stirring up trouble and creating bloodshed. The anti-China arrogance was very arrogant.
In addition, they were also known as the third strongest military power in the world. They even said that as long as there was kapok, it would be the territory of the Southern Kingdom. He completely ignored the deep friendship between the comrades and brothers of the older generation of national leaders such as Hu Zhi,"
"Cough! Class monitor, stop reading. It really makes me feel like my lungs are about to explode from anger!”Hearing this, Tao Zhigang, who could not hold his breath anymore, immediately jumped up in anger and said,"Class monitor, you said that the little tyrants of the Southern Kingdom keep provoking our borders and are known as the third strongest military power. Why don't we fight them and teach them a good lesson? Let them know that we Chinese people are not so easy to offend.
"Yeah, Tao Zhigang is right. Squad leader, why don't we go and fight with them and let them have a good taste of the history of our Chinese people!”
"Sigh, our lungs are about to explode from anger these days! Since the little tyrants of the southern countries are so arrogant, why doesn't our country order the troops to fight them fiercely?”
"Back then, China helped Yue Nan drive away the French and beat off the Americans. During the Cultural Revolution, how many Red Guards crossed the border on foot and sacrificed themselves in the US military's artillery bombardment? When we were in middle school, we even sang it for him: " Yue Southern Heaven Facing the Mountains and Lianshan Mountains, Rivers and Rivers Listen to the Rooster Singing in the Morning!”Why did this comrade and brother suddenly turn hostile? Did they give too little money and want to play rogue with us?”
" These sons of b * tches are too outrageous. A few years ago, they were equipped with weapons that were 'made in China', and they ate rice that was' produced in China'. I didn't expect that they would turn around and attack us now. How ungrateful!”
"Cough! There was no need to say anything more. They were asking for a beating!”
"Yes! Squad Leader Dong, why don't you take us to the higher-ups to ask for a fight now and see if we can go to the front line to fight that Japanese.”
"Yes! Squad Leader Dong, quickly bring us to the higher-ups to request for a battle.”
"Yes, we're all feeling very uncomfortable right now. Quickly bring us to the battle.”
Under Tao Zhigang's lead, the soldiers in the platoon also started firing like cannonballs.
"Everyone, please be quiet!”At this moment, Squad Leader Dong, who was a veteran of the three dynasties, began to persuade everyone with an unusually calm attitude."I know that you've been feeling bad these days and have been holding back your anger. In fact, I'm feeling the same as you. I can't wait to go to the front line and fight with the southern devils to vent my anger! However, the central military administration has yet to issue an official order. We can't act rashly. I think it's probably because the time has not come yet. We still need to be patient for the time being. I believe that a big country like ours won't let the little tyrants of the southern countries do whatever they want.”
121
Sure enough, within a few days, the Chinese government officially declared war on the South, thus opening the prelude to the " self-defense counterattack ".
On this day, all the officers and soldiers of the 5th garrison regiment on Hengsha Island were full of passion and high morale. They gathered in the auditorium of the regiment headquarters and began to listen to the commander of the regiment to convey the order of "self-defense and counterattack against the south" issued by the central government and officially held the entire regiment's pre-war mobilization oath meeting.
On the stage, the commander of the Fifth Regiment, who was not tall but had a burly figure, was standing in front of the microphone and shouting solemnly at the officers and soldiers in the hall," Comrades, you've all heard and seen it these days, right? The southern bullies have been constantly provoking and causing trouble at our border areas. Our government has repeatedly exercised tolerance and restraint, but they don't know what's good for them. They have repeatedly escalated the situation, causing the entire country to become more and more intolerable! Today, the government of our country has the principle of 'I won't attack unless I'm attacked; If someone offends me, I will definitely offend them." The central military and government were officially authorized to issue orders to fight back in self-defense against the South. It's time for us to vent our anger!”
"It's time to test us! It's time for the motherland to choose us! It's time for the party and the people to need us! At this critical moment, we can only have the courage to stand up, but we can't have a reason to retreat. This was the principle of 'nurturing an army for a thousand days to use it for a moment'.
Therefore, I would like to call upon all of you: Those who were members of the Party and the Youth League must seize the opportunity to take action and actively participate in this 'self-defense counter-attack combat'. They should join the company registration and be ready to go to the front line at any time to charge into the enemy's line and kill the enemy bravely. They should make contributions to the Party and the people and be willing to shed their blood.”Immediately after, a tall and muscular regimental political commissar added.
122.
After listening to the regiment's mobilization report on participating in the 'self-defense counterattack' against the south, a wave of people rushed to sign up and requested to participate in the war. The high morale of the people who requested to join the war swept through the entire Hengsha Island camp. The commanders and soldiers of the various companies wrote letters of invitation, letters of determination, and even shocking letters of blood.
At this moment, the atmosphere of the Special Agent Company's officers and soldiers who were close to the regiment's office was no less than that of other companies. It was very strong. Less than a day after the mobilization meeting, the company had received many letters of invitation, letters of determination, and even touching letters of blood.
On this day, Instructor Yan and Company Commander Geng sat in front of the stage. They were reading the letters of invitation and letters of determination written by the soldiers while discussing excitedly,
"Old Geng, look at how strong the morale of our company is! When it came to signing up for the 'self-defense counterattack' battle, everyone was fighting to join.”
"Isn't this all because of the effect of your usual political and intellectual work? However, this also created another problem..."
"What trouble?"
"Think about it. It's a good thing that everyone is fighting for it, but our Special Agent Company only has six spots to go to Yunnan to fight.”After saying that, Company Commander Geng started smoking awkwardly.
"Yes, everyone is fighting to go. The soldiers of each platoon are all very outstanding. Who should we send?”Instructor Yan was also caught in a dilemma.
"At present, only Zhao Shuang, nicknamed 'Cannon' from the Cannon Platoon, has the strongest desire to go to the front line.”Company Commander Geng flipped to the Blood Letter and handed it to Instructor Yan. He said with concern,""Look, he even wrote the Blood Book.”
Instructor Yan held the Blood Book in surprise and was deeply moved." Ah, look at how honest and brave this soldier is!”After a pause, he thought of something else and said,"The more prominent ones are Tao Zhigang and Liu Tiezhu from the police platoon. They have a strong desire to go to the front line and have already written three letters of invitation.
In addition, Zhang Hu, who was born like Zhang Fei, Chen Juntao, who was quite handsome, and Tang Xiaoqiang, who was nicknamed " Little Fatty " from the infantry platoon, had also come to the company headquarters several times. They were also very determined to go to the battlefield. At the same time, some soldiers from other platoons were scrambling to go to the front line to participate in the " self-defense counterattack " battle.”
"Yeah, it really gives me a headache. It's not easy to deal with."
Just as Company Commander Geng and Instructor Yan were in the middle of their conversation, Tao Zhigang suddenly led the few soldiers mentioned above to the company again."Report! Company commander, instructor, may I ask if you've studied the matter of us signing up to participate in the 'self-defense counterattack' battle?”
Company Commander Geng looked at Instructor Yan and shook his head with a bitter smile. He turned to Tao Zhigang, who was leading the way, and shouted helplessly,"Cough! Didn't you see that Instructor Yan and I are in a difficult position because of you?"
"Yes, these few days, because of your going to the front line, a few members of our branch felt their heads swell.”Instructor Yan also sighed bitterly.
"Cough! In my opinion, there's nothing difficult about it.”Tao Zhigang, who had led the team to request for battle, said nonchalantly in the face of the company commander and the instructor's embarrassment.
"Oh, Tao Zhigang, what do you think we should do? Our company has a hundred and thirty people, but the higher-ups only allocated five or six spots for our Special Agent Company to participate in the 'Self-Defense Counterattack'. With so many people coming to request for battle, who do you think should be the most suitable person to go?”Following Tao Zhigang's words, Company Commander Geng asked.
"It's most suitable for us to go!”Tao Zhigang did not think much of it before he continued," You see, we are all top experts from our platoons. We are the backbone of our techniques and tactics. Everyone has quick reflexes and extraordinary skills. In addition, the technical skills that we have trained in our daily life, such as reconnaissance and capturing prisoners, machine gun shooting, mine clearance and blasting, and communication and chemical defense, are guaranteed to be useful in the frontline. We will be able to display our skills on the battlefield.”
"Yes, Tao Zhigang is right. We are all experts in tactics and tactics in our respective platoons. When we get to the front line, we guarantee that there will be no problems!”Liu Tiezhu, Zhao Shuang, Tang Xiaoqiang, Zhang Hu, Chen Juntao, and the other soldiers who came with Tao Zhigang also responded eagerly.
At this moment, Company Commander Geng and Instructor Yan laughed in amusement.
"We can understand why you want to join the battle, but you have to be patient. Let us consider it carefully. I believe we will give you a satisfactory answer.”Seeing how the soldiers were so eager to fight, Company Commander Geng could only try his best to use a negotiating tone to respond.
"However, you must always have a red heart and be prepared for both situations.”Instructor Yan added.
After hearing the hopeful replies from the company commander and the instructor, Tao Zhigang led a group of mischievous soldiers who had come to request for battle and calmly left the company headquarters.
"Sigh, I usually find these mischievous warriors a little annoying, but when it comes to critical moments, they really make me look at them in a new light. Each and every one of them seems quite brave, very simple, and very cute!”After persuading Tao Zhigang and the others to leave, Company Commander Geng spoke from the bottom of his heart with deep feelings.
"This is just like what Leader Mao once taught us: 'The noble are the stupidest, the lowly are the smartest.' Don't underestimate these seemingly mischievous warriors. And those comical figures who seemed to be able to talk and speak were often not necessarily comparable to them at the critical moment.”Instructor Yan said meaningfully.
In fact, it was not a sacred place in the army. In this rush to register for the front line, there were many soldiers who had fantasies and selfish thoughts. However, before deciding whether they could be sent to the front line, they would try their best to avoid them and transfer those who could be transferred away. Not all of them were like those frank and unconcerned soldiers who dared to take the initiative to stand up and accept the selection of their motherland and the test of their organization. They actively participated in the registration and sincerely requested to go to the front line. There were even a few officials who took the opportunity to exclude some soldiers who had already formed opinions or who they thought were usually difficult to deal with and sent them to the front line.
No matter what, brave and innocent soldiers like Tao Zhigang, Zhao Shuang, and Tang Xiaoqiang, who were so-called " naughty " soldiers, could volunteer to stand up when their country needed them urgently. They actively participated in the registration and volunteered to go to the front line to be selected by the party and the people. This was indeed a rare spirit in the army. In China, they could be called the " lovable people of the new generation."
However, when faced with brave and outstanding soldiers like Tao Zhigang and Zhao Shuang, the company often felt that they were unable to do what they wanted, and it was very troublesome.
" Alas, the quota allocated to our Special Agent Company is really too little..." At this time, Company Commander Geng was still worried as he smoked his cigarette and said," There are so many people in the company who want to fight, but there are only five or six places. Who should we give them to?”
"Yes, I am." Instructor Yan agreed as he thought about it calmly."Oh, I remember now. It's like what Tao Zhigang and the others said. The regiment emphasized that we should try our best to send out some different technical backbone personnel to the front line.”
"Sigh, yes, I remember now. The regiment did mention that we should consider selecting a backbone team from different professions to go to the front line.”Company Commander Geng felt as if his eyes had suddenly lit up. He also felt that he had finally found a reasonable way to select the people who would fight in the front line." In that case, we can start to select some people with better professional skills from the police detective, high-tech, infantry, engineer, and chemical defense platoons.”
"Yes, according to what Tao Zhigang and the others mentioned earlier, let's start with the few comrades who actively requested to fight. They happen to be from different technical arms in each platoon, and they are all training models and experts in each platoon. They are also a group of comrades who are more motivated and more reliable in politics.”
"Mm, not bad! Usually, they performed quite well. Not only were they able to work hard without complaint, they were down-to-earth and willing to work, never caring about personal gains and losses. Especially in military training, they were able to be strict with themselves, study hard, and overcome difficulties to cultivate a strong ability. They were indeed the most suitable candidates.”At this point, Commander Geng couldn't help but realize,""Sigh, why didn't I think of this earlier? It's all thanks to you for reminding me."
"Actually, this was the suggestion that Tao Zhigang and the others made when they came to ask for the battle. It reminded me of the request that the regiment had emphasized to our Special Agent Company.”
"It seems that the company has tacitly agreed to the candidate proposed by Tao Zhigang and the others? To select a few of them from their different platoons who actively requested to participate in the battle, wouldn't this be in line with their wishes and fall into their trap?”
" Hahaha..." Instructor Yan couldn't help but laugh when he saw that Commander Geng had finally come to his senses. Then, he said objectively," However, Old Geng, to be honest, the candidate that Tao Zhigang and the others mentioned earlier does make some sense. Moreover, the regiment also emphasized this. This also proved that 'the lowly are the smartest' and once again proved that what Leader Mao once said was true.”
"Well said! Old Yan, let's hurry up and draft a list of people who will be sent to the front line. Then, we'll hand it over to the branch to discuss and report to the regiment.”"Alright, then let's start with Tao Zhigang and the other soldiers who have a strong desire to fight and have different characteristics.”Instructor Yan discussed with Company Commander Geng while taking out a pen and paper from the drawer and spreading them on the table, preparing to draw up a list of candidates for the front line.
"Alright, I think so too." Company Commander Geng immediately agreed." First of all, Zhao Shuang from the advanced engineering class who wrote the 'Blood Book', we definitely have to include him. With two, like Tao Zhigang and Liu Tiezhu from the reconnaissance squad who had handed in two or three letters of request, he had to count them in. Zhang Hu from the engineering class and Chen Juntao from the chemical defense class who had submitted the challenge letter and came to the company several times in a row were also included. Hmm, that makes five.”
"In addition, there is also Tang Xiaoqiang from the infantry class, who has written two letters of determination to donate to the country.”Instructor Yan, who had taken down the name list, added another name.
"Hmm, that means there are six." Company Commander Geng counted with his fingers.
"Ah, there are six now?" Instructor Yan seemed surprised.
"Yeah, it's already six. If you don't believe me, I'll count it again for you. Yes, Guo Yunlong, Tao Zhigang, Liu Tiezhu, Zhang Hu, Chen Juntao, and the Tang Xiaoqiang you mentioned. That's a total of six people.”Company Commander Geng counted on his fingers again.
"Then there's also Sun Xiaobao from the security team, Yu Changgen from the logistics team, and the others who have also written the letter of invitation and the letter of voting.”Instructor Yan, who was worried, added,"In addition, Huang Lianfu and the platoon leader of the police platoon have also submitted their 'Wishing Letter' to the company organization, which is willing to sacrifice for the country. They should be given more consideration because in the face of the test of the war, our officers should take the lead and play an exemplary role. We can't let them fall behind the soldiers.”
"Sigh, isn't it because the quota allocated to us by the higher-ups is too little? Otherwise, I would have asked the team to fight as well.”Company Commander Geng complained. After a short pause, he thought of something and started discussing with Instructor Yan."Oh, right! You see, the recon squad has chosen Tao Zhigang and Liu Tiezhu. Isn't that a bit too much? Why don't we replace Liu Tiezhu with our platoon leader?”
"Hmm, that's more like it. Then let's quickly hold a branch meeting to discuss and pass it.”
"Yes, we can't waste any more time. The regiment is still waiting for us to report the name list of the people who will participate in the battle.”Company Commander Geng urged.
At this point, Company Commander Geng and Instructor Yan, who had basically confirmed the list of people selected by the Special Agent Company to participate in the battle, heaved a sigh of relief.
One, two, three.
After a series of persistent requests, Tao Zhigang, as the representative of the six special agent soldiers, was finally approved by the higher-ups. As members of the "self-defense counterattack", they were about to go to the Yunnan frontline.
As soon as the news spread, the entire company was in an uproar. All the platoon mates and fellow countrymen rushed over to give their blessings and encouragement, and nervously and enthusiastically discussed various topics about going to the front line.
As for the few soldiers who were approved to go to the front line, it was even more difficult for them to calm down. Looking back on the days when they had asked the company for permission to fight, they had been looking forward to it. Now that it had been approved, they were a little nervous.
After dinner, Liu Tiezhu, Tao Zhigang's classmate and former performance partner, came to Tao Zhigang's side with disappointment and sadness. He said his last goodbye.
" Ahem, Zhigang, you guys really got the chance this time. It's a pity that we couldn't fulfill our wish to fight in the front line. We can only follow behind you to cheer you up," Liu Tiezhu said dejectedly as he helped Tao Zhigang pack his luggage.
"Don't be discouraged. Staying behind is also because the army needs it. Moreover, we might encounter similar opportunities to pay tribute to our motherland in the future.”Tao Zhigang, who was about to break up with his comrade, was also reluctant to part with Liu Tiezhu.
"Zhigang, when you go to the front line, you have to take it easy. When you should be brave, you have to be brave. When you shouldn't be brave, you have to be patient.”Liu Tiezhu reminded Tao Zhigang worriedly.
"Mm, yes, I'll remember it." Tao Zhigang was touched and shook Liu Tiezhu's hand. In turn, he encouraged him,""Oh, Xiao Liu, then you have to work hard in the Special Agent Company. Don't throw a tantrum and don't take things too hard.”
"Now that we've broken up, I wonder when we'll be able to meet again.”Liu Tiezhu's eyes were red as he spoke in a choked voice.
At this moment, the whistle sounded again. Then, the platoon leader on duty ordered," All the remaining members, go to the room."
"Zhigang, you have to take care of yourself at the front line.”
"Yes, Xiao Liu, you should take care of yourself even if you stay in the old company.”
The two comrades-in-arms who had been saying goodbye for a long time finally couldn't bear to part ways and leave.
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