11.
As the heavens withdrew the rain, the heavens finally revealed a mysterious smile.
Taking advantage of the sunny weather, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, who were already on their way, didn't dare to be negligent. They immediately launched a long-distance rapid march.
In order to buy time and reach the destination of Gongshan Second Company as soon as possible, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan adopted a corresponding flexible marching strategy in the face of the bumpy, difficult and complicated journey. When they encountered a slightly better road, they would run forward at the first marching speed. When they encountered heavily damaged roads, they would advance at the second marching speed.
At the same time, when he was hungry, he would chew two mouthfuls of cold bread. When he was thirsty, he would drink a pot of water. He would occasionally cross the stream, climb over the hills, fly across the chasm, and pass through the dangerous pass. After running for more than ten hours a day, he finally arrived at Ma Ji Village, which was about 62 kilometers away. He had completed more than half of the original plan for the first day. He did not encounter too many risks on the way, so his personal safety was guaranteed.
12.
That night, under the familiar guidance of the " guide " Ma Xiaochuan, Tao Zhigang followed them to the mountain village near Maji Village. They found a relatively flat open space and set up a tent.
After a night of rest, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, who had heavy responsibilities on their shoulders, woke up early the next morning and packed their luggage. They found a river ditch, washed up briefly, and sat cross-legged on the ground to eat their dry rations. Then, they quickly embarked on a new day's journey to the Second Company of Gongshan.
Thirteen.
However, what Tao Zhigang and the rest did not expect was that the road on the second day was even more difficult to walk than the first day. Other than crossing many dilapidated roadblocks, they had to climb over the walls and cross the moats. Sometimes, they even had to risk crossing the landslide area...
After another half a day of rapid marching, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan arrived at a place where they were still one-third of the way from the Second Company of Gongshan. At this time, they were already exhausted and their mouths were dry. The dry rations and water bottles they had brought were almost exhausted. In addition, Tao Zhigang's feet had blisters. They were almost at their limit...
However, at this moment, they encountered an even more formidable obstacle: It was a dangerous mudslide zone that was about 100 meters long. From time to time, sand and stones would fall and roll towards the Nu River. Water splashed everywhere, seriously threatening pedestrians to pass through.
At this moment, Tao Zhigang, who was focused on rushing to the Second Company of Gongshan before dark, did not realize that he had stepped into the danger of a landslide. He only kept his head down and continued to move forward. Unexpectedly, he saw two flying stones rolling down from the high slope.
"Not good, Tao Banfu, there's danger!”At that moment, Ma Xiaochuan, who had noticed the danger, rushed forward and hugged Tao Zhigang as he took a big step back.
In an instant, the two flying rocks whizzed down from the place where Tao Zhigang was about to take a step forward and rushed straight into the middle of the river, stirring up a huge wave...
"Wow, so mysterious!" Tao Zhigang, who was drenched in cold sweat, shook his head and looked at Ma Xiaochuan before he came back to his senses."Cough! Just now, it was all my fault that I was busy rushing and didn't notice the danger of the mudslide on the mountain..."
"Tao Banfu, you can't blame yourself for this. After all, you are from the mainland and are not familiar with the complex terrain of the Nu River Canyon. It is naturally difficult to predict the sudden danger of the mudslide.”Ma Xiaochuan tried his best to comfort Tao Zhigang.
"Little Ma, is there still water in the kettle?" Tao Zhigang felt his mouth go dry after the shock.
" Oh, there's still a little left. Here-" Ma Xiaochuan immediately took out the water bottle and handed it over." I was afraid that you would be thirsty and have no water to drink, so I saved some for you."”
"Uh, thank you so much!" Tao Zhigang, who had drunk the water, wiped the corners of his mouth and said with deep emotion,"Cough! This road is really too difficult to walk on. If it's not rivers, dangerous passes, or broken bridges, broken walls, and this damn mudslide, it's even more dangerous..."
"Yeah, if I hadn't pulled you so quickly, you would have been 'glorified' today.”Ma Xiaochuan glanced at Tao Zhigang and said teasingly.
"Yes, it's all thanks to your 'Guide Ma' that I was able to discover this dangerous situation in time, allowing me to escape from danger.”Tao Zhigang gratefully shook Ma Xiaochuan's hand. Then, he said tactfully," But a few days ago, when the company participated in the disaster relief of the mudslide at Fugong Bridge, I also saved your life. Now, we're even."”
"Yeah, if you hadn't noticed the danger in time and pushed me away last time, I might have been in trouble too.”Ma Xiaochuan said gratefully after Tao Zhigang's reminder. Then, he followed Tao Zhigang's words and added,""In that case, we don't owe each other anything.”
" Haha," Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan couldn't help but laugh at the thought of saving each other's lives.
After chatting and laughing for a while, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan's shocked mood was instantly diluted.
After a pause, Ma Xiaochuan pointed at the mudslide in front of him and said,""Tao Wenshu, did you see that? We have stepped into the dangerous area of the mudslide. The road ahead is completely blocked by the mudslide. It's really not easy to pass through!”
Looking in the direction of Ma Xiaochuan's finger, the slope next to the passage in front of them was still being flooded with mudflows, creating a series of dangerous situations. The only section of the road was completely swallowed by the mudflows, forming an uneven slope that extended to the bottom of the turbulent river...
Faced with the threat of the landslide and the surging river flood, Tao Zhigang, who shouldered the heavy responsibility, finally realized the seriousness of the problem. He began to ask Ma Xiaochuan, who was familiar with the border situation, anxiously,""'Guide Ma', are there any other routes nearby besides this passage?”
"Other paths? I don't think I've taken them before.”Ma Xiaochuan scratched the back of his head and thought hard."As far as I know, this highway is the shortest way to Gongshan.”
"How far are we from Gongshan Second Company?”
"About 14 or 15 kilometers.”
At this moment, Tao Zhigang quickly raised his watch to check the time. It was close to two o'clock, and there was not much time left before the higher-ups arrived at their destination. In addition, they were in a deep mountain valley, so they were shielded from the sun. The sky was getting darker, and he could not help but feel anxious.
"Tao Banfu, don't hesitate anymore! He might as well rush over from here.”At this moment, Ma Xiaochuan could not help but suggest to Tao Zhigang.
" Well, there's not much time left. I'm also thinking about it, but I'm worried that taking such a risky action will bring hidden dangers to my personal safety.”
"Cough! Tao Banfu, since you're here, you're not allowed to be afraid of death.”
"This is not a matter of cowardice. We have to make it clear that our purpose here is to complete the mission of our superiors, not just to show our courage and risk our lives.”
"That's true. Tao Banfu, actually, I didn't mean to come here to die for nothing. I was afraid that it would be even more difficult to pass if I couldn't see the road clearly when it was dark.”
"I was just as anxious as you, but before we came, the company even suggested that we pay more attention to our personal safety. Moreover, there were only the two of us on the road.”Tao Zhigang patiently tried to persuade Ma Xiaochuan," If you hadn't pulled me back in time when I was in danger, I would have been hit by the debris flow. Then, how are you going to save me? How could he carry out the tasks assigned by his superiors? Therefore, we must learn our lesson. The closer we are to completing the mission, the more we must maintain a calm and composed attitude. We must not be careless and let our guard down.”
"Yes, Tao Banfu, what you said is very reasonable. I finally understand now.”After listening to Tao Zhigang's advice, Ma Xiaochuan calmed down. Then, he asked Tao Zhigang," But I really can't think of a better way to get through..."
"That's right. Since there's no other better way to choose at the moment, and there's not much time left, we can only choose to pass through this dangerous mudslide area combined with safety precautions.”Tao Zhigang turned around and looked at the road blocked by the mudslide. He patted Ma Xiaochuan's shoulder and said encouragingly,""Aren't you the Ma Guide-in-Chief we call you in Lianli? You're also a local of Gongshan's Dulong tribe, so you're more familiar with the mudslide situation in this area than I am.”
"Well, that's good. According to my experience with mudflows, we should do as you said before. When we force our way through this mudflow, we must first take safety precautions.”Then, Ma Xiaochuan instructed Tao Zhigang,""Tao Banfu, listen to my arrangements. Follow behind me and keep a distance of 3 - 5 meters. Follow the route I lead and advance step by step. At the same time, pay attention to listen and watch more. Watch your expressions. If you encounter danger, dodge in time to prevent being hit by the falling sand and stones..."
Before he could finish his sentence, a new landslide occurred on the hillside in front of him.
"Look, it's so dangerous. You have to pay more attention to the movements on the mountain while passing through. You have to grasp the rhythm of the mudslide and take advantage of the gaps to pass through cleverly. Only in this way can you avoid unnecessary casualties.”Seeing the new landslide, Ma Xiaochuan added.
"Yes, Guide Ma, what you said makes sense! "I've remembered everything. Then, let's start implementing the method you mentioned." Tao Zhigang looked at his watch again and began to urge him.
Then, Ma Xiaochuan led Tao Zhigang and risked his life to pull away from them. They stepped on the rocks and chose a path with great difficulty. They started an intense battle to force their way through the mudslide...
As they looked up to observe the dangerous situation of the mudslide on the mountain, they seized the opportunity to skillfully pass through the mudslide that was pouring down, successfully avoiding the danger of being hit by flying sand and stones. After a tenacious struggle, Ma Xiaochuan finally led Tao Zhigang through the mudslide blockade and stepped onto the slightly flatter passage along the way. They continued to carry out the mission assigned by the superior to the Second Company.
"Cough! The damn mudslide has brought us a lot of trouble. He had finally made it here safely.”Tao Zhigang, who had crossed the dangerous section of the mudslide, heaved a sigh of relief.
" Yes, it's not easy. In all my years of dealing with mudflows, this is the riskiest one I've encountered," Ma Xiaochuan couldn't help but sigh.
" Yes. When we were halfway through, we suddenly saw a piece of flying rock being picked up by the landslide on the mountain and was about to smash it down on your head. At that time, my heart was already in my throat and I was about to shout for you. I didn't expect that you would take a big step forward unexpectedly, and then the flying rock happened to fall behind you. It was so mysterious!”Tao Zhigang said with lingering fear.
"Actually, I had already noticed it back then. That was why I took a big step forward and avoided the risk of the mudslide.”Ma Xiaochuan said calmly.
Looking at Ma Xiaochuan's innocent look, Tao Zhigang raised his thumb and praised,""Cough! Truly experienced, truly worthy of being our company's 'Guide Ma'.”Then, he looked at the clock and urged Ma Xiaochuan,""Alright, it's getting late. We have to hurry up.”
At this moment, Ma Xiaochuan also realized it and quickly responded,""Yes, we have to hurry. Otherwise, it will be even more troublesome when the sky turns dark.”Then, he said to Tao Zhigang teasingly,"This time, there won't be any more danger. We can reach our destination smoothly, right?”
"Haha, I hope so."
As they chatted, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan once again set foot on the mountain road to the Second Company of Gongshan.
After another two hours of rapid marching, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan finally arrived at the location of the Gongshan Second Company according to the time set by their superiors.
At this point, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, who had rushed over to carry out their mission, looked at the location of the Second Company and felt that they had completed the entire journey from Fugong to Gongshan. Only then did they heave a sigh of relief. The stone that had been blocking their hearts was finally relieved.
14.
At this time, Tao Zhigang, who was immersed in the aftertaste, also happened to catch his breath. He once again touched the inscription of Liang Qingshan's martyr. Then, he came to the tomb of Guo Yunlong, the leader of the rocket launcher squad, who had signed up with him to participate in the war. He felt heartbroken and wiped his tears.
Then, he lit Guo Yunlong's favorite cigarette and looked at the rising smoke. Tao Zhigang seemed to continue to imagine Guo Yunlong, Liang Qingshan, and other comrades who were involved in the intense rescue of the border people and the relocation of the camp. They were unfortunately hit by a landslide and died heroically. He was then sent to the Gongshan Company to carry out a letter delivery mission. He also witnessed the shocking scene of the Gongshan Company's officers and soldiers carrying out the excavation and rescue operation.
Fifteen.
Dusk enveloped the entire deep mountain valley. The disaster area of Gongshan, which was in the midst of a landslide, was particularly heart-wrenching.
At this time, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, who had arrived at their destination, followed the side of the road at the foot of Gongshan Mountain and found the location where the Second Company of Gongshan was moving. However, when they stepped into the temporary tent camp, they did not see the figures of the soldiers in the platoon. In the end, they found two cooks busy cooking in a smoky tent. After asking around, they found out that the entire Second Company was still on the landslide hill where the landslide had occurred. The site where the Second Company had gone to was currently engaged in an intense excavation to find the bodies of more than ten buried martyrs.
Sixteen.
Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, who were eager to complete the task of conveying the letter and order, immediately found the Second Company to dig for the remains of the martyrs.
"Company Commander, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan of Fugong Company have been ordered to convey the orders of their superiors!”After saluting the commander of the second company, Tao Zhigang took out the letter from the regiment headquarters and handed it to him.
"Oh, Tao Zhigang, Ma Xiaochuan, we were still waiting for instructions from our superiors. You guys came just in time.”Company Commander Gong held Tao Zhigang's hand tightly and said enthusiastically. " After our company was attacked by the mudslide, we almost lost contact with the outside world..."
Immediately after, Company Commander Gong raised the letter and shouted at the search and rescue site not far away,"Sigh, Old Yuan, come over quickly. The regiment sent someone to send the latest instructions to our company.”
"Oh, yes, that's great.”Instructor Yuan quickly rushed over.
"Oh, it's you guys who sent the regiment's instructions. This will help our company get in touch.”Then, Instructor Yuan came up to them and shook Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan's hands in surprise. He said gratefully,"Cough, you've worked hard! It was really not easy to come from such a long distance.”
Instructor Yuan then asked Tao Zhigang with concern,"" It's not easy to walk this way. Did you encounter a mudslide..."
"Company commander, instructor, it's not a big deal that the road was a little difficult to walk on. It's just that the damn mudslide that we encountered when we were about to reach your place brought us a lot of trouble, but in the end, we managed to overcome it and eliminate it.”Tao Zhigang replied with a sense of honor.
"Sigh, I knew you would run into a mudslide blocking the road. This is because every time there is a heavy rain on this mountain road, a mudslide will occur.”It was obvious that Company Commander Gong was quite familiar with the mudslide situation in this area.
"Yes, Tao Banfu was almost hit by a flying rock when he encountered the mudslide today.”Following Instructor Yuan's words, Ma Xiaochuan told him about the mudslide Tao Zhigang encountered.
"It was all thanks to Guide Ma discovering me in time and suddenly carrying me and taking a big step forward that I was spared from the unexpected disaster.”
"Later, when we passed through the dangerous area of the mudslide, it was also thanks to Tao Banfu's reminder to take a calm approach, combined with safety precautions, that we were able to skillfully cross over and arrive here on time.”
"Are you injured anywhere on your body?”Instructor Yuan asked with concern.
"Fortunately, I didn't." Tao Zhigang answered proudly.
"However, Tao Zhigang's feet are blisters.”Then, Ma Xiaochuan added.
"Then we have to hurry back to the company and apply some medicine to bandage it.”Instructor Yuan immediately bent down to check Tao Zhigang's injuries.
"Look at how you're dismembering my legs." Tao Zhigang secretly glared at Ma Xiaochuan, then turned around and quickly explained to Instructor Yuan,""Instructor, don't listen to his nonsense. It's actually nothing. Look at me.”As he spoke, Tao Zhigang pretended to take a few big steps forward.
" Well, it seems that the two of you have a tacit understanding of each other. One is brave enough to take risks, and the other is good at beating around the bush. Haha," After listening to Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan's report, Instructor Yuan gave them a humorous evaluation.
"Hahaha, Instructor Yuan, you're too kind to us.”Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan lowered their heads in embarrassment.
At this time, Commander Gong, who had been reading the letter carefully, came to Instructor Yuan excitedly and handed the letter to him." Look, Old Yuan, it's just as you predicted. Two days ago, the company was attacked by a landslide. The regiment knew about it and immediately sent a letter to contact us. They even sent medical personnel and rescue teams to our company. It seems that the regiment is very sympathetic and supportive of our company..."
After a short pause, his expression darkened again as he told Instructor Dao Yuan,""However, at the same time, the regiment gave a strict order to our company: They had to carry out a comprehensive search and rescue operation for the victims in the shortest time possible. They had to see the people alive and the corpses of the dead. They had to do their best without delay.”
"Old Gong, this is a mandatory order.”Instructor Yuan immediately felt the pressure of the order and looked at Company Commander Gong as he reminded him.
"Yeah, I didn't expect the order from the regiment to be so tough. It's really frightening.”
"That's right. With such a big incident, how can the regiment not feel angry? Naturally, the orders have to be tough and intimidating. Moreover, it involves a huge responsibility. In this regard, we must be able to understand and have a clear understanding. We must not neglect our duties and take it lightly.”Instructor Yuan explained the mandatory order issued by the superior to Company Commander Gong.
"But we've been digging and searching for almost three days, but we still haven't found any traces of the remaining three martyrs 'bodies. It's really urgent!”At this moment, Commander Gong's face revealed an extremely anxious expression.
"Isn't that so? Old Gong, I'm also feeling anxious. Think about it, we've sacrificed so many soldiers in one incident. If we can't find the corpses, how will the regiment view us? How will the families of the deceased soldiers view us? If things don't go well, we might even be punished.”Instructor Yuan sighed heavily."Sigh! Old Gong, this time we're in trouble.”
"Cough!" It was a blessing, not a curse, but a curse that could not be avoided.”Company Commander Gong felt helpless and threw out a folk saying. Then, he anxiously asked Instructor Yuan,"We still have to think of a way quickly. We can't continue to fight like this.”
" Mm, later, you will convey the contents of the letter and the orders issued by the regiment to all the officers and soldiers present. Then, we will gather the company to hold an on-site meeting to analyze the excavation and search situation. We will re-study and draft a plan to excavate and find the remains of the martyrs.”Instructor Yuan then discussed with Company Commander Gong.
"Alright, alright! Then let's hurry up and put it into action.”As he spoke, Company Commander Gong picked up the microphone at the construction site and announced the regiment's orders to the officers and soldiers who were digging for the bodies of the martyrs on the construction site."Comrades, the regiment has sent someone to our company to deliver the orders from the higher-ups. They have ordered us to carry out a comprehensive search and rescue operation for the fallen soldiers in the shortest time possible. We must ensure that we see the survivors and the corpses of the dead.”
"Everyone heard it, right?'Make sure to see the people alive and the corpses of the dead. Do your best and don't delay.' This is a death order that the regiment has given to our company. I hope everyone will pay enough attention to it.”In order to attract the attention of the officers and soldiers present, Company Commander Gong immediately emphasized his words again. Then, he changed his tone and said gently,"Of course, the regiment is also very sympathetic and concerned about the mudslide attack on our company. Not only did they send a letter and order, but they are also preparing to send us medicine, food, and rescue teams.”
"Yes, not only did the regiment convey the order to us, but they also sent us care and warmth. Therefore, we must not let down the chief's expectations of us. According to the regiment's order to 'do our best and not delay,' the company planned to hold a landslide site investigation meeting to re-study and formulate a precise plan to excavate and find the bodies of the martyrs. They would strive to find the remaining three martyrs 'bodies as soon as possible and complete the urgent mission given by the regiment.”After Commander Gong announced the order, Instructor Yuan started to talk to everyone.
After listening to the orders of the company commander and the propaganda of the instructor, and learning that the regiment had specially sent people to the scene, the soldiers of the second company immediately felt excited and increased their courage and confidence in excavating and finding the remains of the martyrs. However, at the same time, they felt the pressure and urgency of excavating and searching for the remains of the martyrs.
"Sigh, Company Commander Gong, Instructor Yuan, which soldiers were buried by the mudslide this time?”Tao Zhigang couldn't help but ask when he thought of the martyrs who were unfortunately buried by the mudslide.
"Cough! "All twelve of them are from the rocket launcher squad. That night, they were the ones who suggested to guard the ammunition depot and the camp. Otherwise..." Commander Gong replied with a pained expression.
"Guo Yunlong and Liang Qingshan's class?”
"Yes."
"Wow! There are quite a few people in their class who are our comrades and fellow countrymen.”When Tao Zhigang heard that the unfortunate victim was his comrade's class, he felt like he had been struck by lightning. He saw stars and felt dizzy. Then, he covered his head with both hands and squatted down.
"Tao Zhigang, what's wrong?" Seeing this, Ma Xiaochuan quickly went forward to help him up. With sadness, he also recalled and said," No wonder I heard someone say that a serious landslide occurred in Fugong two days ago, which buried more than ten border guards. Now that I'm here and I've seen such a tragic scene, how can I not feel heartbroken?”
"Tao Zhigang, Ma Xiaochuan, don't feel too sad. In fact, we've been feeling just as bad as you these past two days.”Instructor Yuan walked up and consoled Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan sympathetically." Sigh, who can prevent natural disasters and man-made disasters in advance?”
"Company Commander Gong, how is the search and rescue going in your company? Have you found the bodies of several martyrs?”Tao Zhigang asked with tears in his eyes.
"Yes, the search and excavation on the first day of the landslide did not go smoothly. We only found the bodies of three buried martyrs."
"Who are they? Are there any signs of life?" Tao Zhigang immediately asked.
"They were all crushed by the fierce mudslide, so how could there be any signs of life? If it wasn't for the cleaning later, it would have been difficult to recognize the three of them. They were the artillery squad Fu Liang Qingshan, who was guarding the company's ammunition depot until the last shift until dawn, and the inland forward soldier Zhang Hu, and the inland forward soldier Chen Juntao, who had changed shifts.”Instructor Yuan interjected.
"Wow! "Zhang Hu, Chen Juntao, my good brothers, why did you leave so suddenly? You didn't even have the time to meet us again…" Tao Zhigang muttered to himself in pain.
After a while, Instructor Yuan continued," Then, after two days of hard work, we finally made a breakthrough. So far, except for Guo Yunlong, Lu Shoujiang, and Pan Yue, the bodies of the other nine soldiers have been found.”
" Sigh, Guo Yunlong, Pan Yue, my good brother, where did you go? Hurry up and return to the team so that we can see you again," Tao Zhigang called out emotionally again." Wei Lianfu, didn't you bring them here? Why didn't you take good care of them?"
"Alright, it's getting late. Tao Zhigang, Ma Xiaochuan, you've walked so many mountain roads today and passed through the dangerous areas of the mudslide. It's really hard on you.”At this moment, looking at Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, whose bodies were covered in mud and their faces looked haggard, and their emotions were starting to go out of control, Company Commander Gong hurriedly urged them as he called over the company's secretary and instructed,"Han Wenshu, quickly bring the two comrades who rushed over to carry out the mission back to the company camp to find a sturdy tent and arrange for them to have a good rest.”
"No, Company Commander Gong, Instructor Yuan, I don't want to rest. I want to join you in digging for the bodies of the martyrs.”
"Yes, let us join you.”Ma Xiaochuan immediately responded.
"Alright, alright, do you guys not want to live anymore? You've walked so many mountain roads today and even passed through dangerous areas of mudflows. Aren't you afraid that you'll collapse from exhaustion?”Looking at the stalemate between Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, Commander Gong felt angry and said lovingly,""Look at you guys. Your faces are covered in fatigue and your bodies are covered in mud. You shouldn't go back and wash up.”
"The commander is right. Don't be too eager to fight. We can understand your feelings of missing your comrades, but you've already traveled hard for two days. It's time to go back and rest.”In order to stabilize Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan's thoughts and emotions, Instructor Yuan also tried to persuade them,""When I recover my strength tomorrow, I can join everyone in digging for the bodies of the martyrs.”
"Han Wenshu, quickly bring them to the camp to rest.”At this moment, Company Commander Gong was almost giving an order to Han Wenshu.
Then, Han Wenshu quickly pulled Tao Zhigang up. Ma Xiaochuan persuaded him to leave the construction site while walking towards the temporary tent camp at the foot of the mountain.
17.
The next morning, just as dawn broke, the officers and men of the Second Company got up early and went to the construction site where they dug up the remains of the martyrs.
After a long journey, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, who were exhausted, slept until eight or nine o'clock when they suddenly realized that they still had a mission to complete. Although he had recovered some strength after a short night's rest, the soreness and swelling of his joints were still clearly exposed...
In order to better carry out the tasks assigned by the superiors, to further understand the details of the Second Company's death, and to help excavate and find the remains of the martyrs, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan quickly washed up, filled their breakfast, and rushed to the construction site on the mountain with fatigue and soreness.
"Hey, Tao Banfu, Guide Ma, why didn't you sleep a little longer and come to the construction site again?”Han Wenshu, who had noticed Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, greeted them first.
"Cough! Han Wenshu, why didn't you wake us up to go to the construction site this morning?”Tao Zhigang, who came to Han Wenshu's side, said with some blame.
"That's right. We've been sleeping until now.”
"You can't blame me. This was deliberately arranged by the company. They said that it was hard enough for you to travel for two days. It's best not to let you come to the construction site again.”Han Wenshu immediately explained to Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan.
"What? Are you afraid that we won't be able to hold on? Don't worry, we won't collapse from exhaustion.”Then, Tao Zhigang said tenaciously.
Following that, accompanied by Han Wenshu, Tao Zhigang, Ma Xiaochuan, and the soldiers of the Second Company started a new battle to excavate the bodies of the martyrs.
After a short pause, Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan, who were following Han Wenshu, took the opportunity to dig for the bodies of the martyrs and began to understand the situation of the rescue and disaster relief of the entire Second Company, especially the 12 rocket launcher soldiers who had unfortunately sacrificed themselves to fight against the flash flood and mudslide.
"Sigh, I didn't expect the rain to be so fierce this year. The number of mudflows caused has also increased a lot compared to previous years. It's really rare!”Han Wenshu looked up at the clear blue sky and sighed.
"Yeah, it's said that the rain this year is heavy and heavy. A few days ago, the Fugong Bridge over there was almost washed away by a mudslide, let alone your side. The environmental conditions are so harsh, so the danger is naturally even more severe.”Ma Xiaochuan, who was following beside him, also said this as he was quite familiar with the local situation.
"Yes, although the rain in Fugong is heavy and caused a mudslide disaster, it's not as unusual as your Gongshan. There will actually be a mudslide at night.”Tao Zhigang said in confusion.
" Isn't that so? Thinking back to the rainy weather in Wuyou, our company began to strengthen the patrol duties around the area and pay attention to the corresponding preventive measures to prevent mudflows. As the rainfall continued to increase, the company's officers and soldiers officially began to participate in the local rescue and disaster relief and protect the safety of the military camp. They also began to fight with the mountain torrents and mudflows..."
Listening to Han Wenshu's painful narration, they looked at the ruins of the Second Company that had been buried by the landslide and the figures of the Second Company's soldiers who were digging for the bodies of the martyrs. Instantly, the heroic scene of the Second Company's soldiers fighting to the death with the sudden landslide seemed to appear before Tao Zhigang and Ma Xiaochuan's eyes again.
Eighteen.
It was May 1980 before the beginning of summer. It was also the second year since the troops sent to the Nu River area to defend the China-Myanmar border. The entire Nu River area welcomed heavy rainfall, causing many natural disasters such as mudflows, landslides, collapses, and rolling stones in Gongshan. It brought serious threats to road traffic safety, the safety of people's lives and property, and normal production and life. The danger was constantly in danger!
It was early in the morning, and the sky was gray and foggy. The commanders of the second company who received the rescue and disaster relief mission came to a basketball court in the company and began to receive the specific division of tasks for each platoon.
"Next, I'll make an announcement about the company's participation in the rescue and disaster relief mission. The company decided that the first, second, and third platoons would be the main force, responsible for the safety of the people on the border and the transfer of property, and to help the local area to complete the task of eliminating the dangers of mountain torrents and mudflows. The four platoons of rocket launchers formed an assault force, responsible for completing the relocation of our company's camp, including rushing to transport all kinds of weapons and equipment, military supplies, and other work.”Company Commander Gong first announced the division of tasks for each platoon. Then, he urged them to ask,"Do all platoons understand?"
"Understood!" The platoons of soldiers lined up below responded with full vigor.
"Well, it seems that our company still has quite the morale. That's good. With this morale, we don't have to worry about not being able to defeat the mudslide in the end!”Immediately after, Instructor Yuan, who felt gratified, also made a last-minute mobilization." In this flood and mudslide rescue battle, I hope that everyone can carry forward the spirit of 'not afraid of hardship, not afraid of death' and the style of 'fighting a few battles without rest.' You must be able to withstand the test, work hard, be brave, and make new contributions to the party and the people.”
"Alright, let's follow the division of labor as mentioned above.”As Company Commander Gong issued the order to carry out rescue and disaster relief, a tense battle to fight against the mountain torrents and mudflows finally began...
Nineteen.
Following that, the platoon commanders who received the mission quickly rushed up the hill according to their respective mission areas and rushed to various rescue and disaster relief locations. Some were carrying children from danger, some were carrying old people from dangerous houses, some were helping the masses to transport property, and some were helping the border stockade to prevent mudflows and collapses.
Guo Yunlong, Liang Qingshan, and the other four rows of rocket launchers who stayed in the company were moving supplies and equipment between the old company and the new camp.
In order to complete the rescue and disaster relief mission as soon as possible and avoid the arrival of more severe mountain torrents and mudflows, most of the soldiers in the platoon were fighting to be the first to do so. They were in full swing, sweating like rain, and even forgot to eat and sleep...
After continuous attacks and tenacious fighting, the commanders of the Second Company were finally close to completing the rescue and disaster relief mission issued by their superiors...
Twenty.
However, on this evening, when the platoons returned to the company to prepare for dinner and rest, only Guo Yunlong and Liang Qingshan led the twelve rocket artillery squad members to continue to complete the relocation mission.
Company Commander Gong and Instructor Yuan, who were in charge of the rescue and disaster relief work, knew about the situation and immediately rushed to the front of the mountain, waiting for the return of the rocket launcher squad.
It wasn't until it was almost dark that Guo Yunlong and Liang Qingshan led the twelve soldiers in the squad to carry the supplies down the mountain. At this time, Company Commander Gong and Instructor Yuan finally heaved a sigh of relief.
"Squad Leader Guo, Squad Leader Liang, why haven't you finished your work yet? It was already dark, but he didn't feel tired or hungry?!”"Everyone's still waiting for you to eat together," Commander Gong said in a caring tone.”
"Oh, Company Commander, Instructor, I'm sorry for delaying everyone.”Guo Yunlong first expressed his apology, then he extended his hand to Commander Gong and begged,"Company Commander Gong, please give me a cigarette first.”
"What? It's okay if you don't eat, but you can't do it if you smoke, right?”Commander Gong looked at Tao Zhigang with a reproachful look." Don't you know that there are rules in the company? Soldiers are not allowed to smoke.”
"Aiya, Company Commander Gong, what time is it now?”Guo Yunlong continued to plead, seemingly unable to endure it.
Company Commander Gong first looked at Instructor Yuan for advice, then turned to Guo Yunlong and said teasingly,""Mm, alright. Seeing that you've worked quite hard today, I'll reward you first.”Then, Company Commander Gong took out a cigarette from his pocket and lit one for him.
"Wow! Captain, so you still smoke Ashima's.”Guo Yunlong took the cigarette from the company commander and recognized the brand on it at a glance. He greedily took a puff and sighed,"Cough! It was a branded cigarette. The smell was really unbearable.”
"It seems that you are worthy of being an old smoking man in our company. You really have a different experience of the taste of cigarettes.”Looking at Guo Yunlong smoking to relieve his fatigue, Company Commander Gong said with pity. After a pause, he asked with concern,"Hey, Squad Leader Guo, how many things are left to move?"”
" Oh, reporting to Company Commander and Instructor. Except for the remaining weapons and ammunition in the armory and some supplies in the logistics warehouse, most of the weapons, equipment, and living supplies have been rushed down the mountain..." Hearing Company Commander Gong's question about the relocation, Guo Yunlong hurriedly stopped smoking and answered.
"We originally planned to complete the mission today, but we didn't expect the company to have so many logistics supplies and weapons.”At this moment, Liang Banfu, who was following behind the team, also came up and added.
"Oh, I forgot. Our smoking man didn't give us any rewards.”Seeing Liang Qingshan reporting, Company Commander Gong couldn't help but think of it and quickly took out a cigarette to light it up.
"Squad Leader Guo, Squad Leader Liang, it's fine if you really didn't have time to finish moving. This time, your platoon has the heaviest task. It's really hard on you.”Instructor Yuan said sympathetically. Then, he patted Guo Yunlong and Liang Qingshan's shoulders and began to urge them," Alright, quickly take the team back to clean up and prepare for dinner. The whole company is waiting for your class."”
Then, he walked to Commander Gong's side and muttered,""Sigh, Company Commander Gong, it seems like we still have to send a squad of sentry patrol personnel to help guard the barracks equipment and ammunition depot tonight?”
"Yes, that's a must! The further they got, the more they couldn't let their guard down.”Commander Gong immediately agreed.
"Sigh, Company Commander Gong, Instructor Yuan, why don't you leave the duty of guarding the ammunition depot and the camp to us tonight?”Guo Yunlong immediately took the opportunity to ask for a fight.
"Look, this desperate look has reminded him again.”Instructor Yuan glanced at Commander Gong and said with a sly smile.
"Guo Yunlong, why do you have to hand it over to your class?”Company Commander Gong glanced at Guo Yunlong and asked with a smile.
"Company commander, instructor, think about it. Didn't we get assigned to be responsible for the company's relocation? We haven't completed the mission yet, so it's our duty to keep in touch with the ammo depot and the camp's safety at night. They should take us into consideration.”
" Haha, what you said makes sense…But, you guys have been working hard for the past few days…" Instructor Yuan comforted Guo Yunlong's shoulder and said,""Sigh, Squad Leader Guo, don't fight for tonight's mission anymore. It's better to let other classes take it.”
"Company commander, instructor, this isn't very good. This is something we haven't done yet. How can we let other platoons do it?”
"That's right, class monitor. We can't give in. This is our class's duty. We have to persevere until the end!”
"Moreover, we are the main backbone of the company. We should bear the brunt of the battle and do our best to take responsibility for the company.”
Seeing that Guo Yunlong was alone, Pan Yue, Zhang Hu, Chen Juntao, and several other comrades who came from the mainland also helped out.
"You see, it's true that a strong general has no weak soldiers.”Commander Gong looked at Instructor Yuan and praised Guo Yunlong with a smile.
"Pan Yue, Zhang Hu, Chen Juntao, I know that you guys are all active in the company.”Then, Instructor Yuan spoke to a few soldiers who were supporting the front line from the mainland with a warm and angry tone.
"Alright, Squad Leader Guo, no matter what, even if you want to be the main backbone of the company, you have to balance work and rest. You have to switch between rest and rest.”Then, Commander Gong continued to persuade Guo Yunlong.
Seeing that it was not possible to use force to entangle Company Commander Gong, Guo Yunlong switched to using soft tactics and continued to plead with Company Commander Gong,"Aiya, Company Commander Gong, please give us some face. Leave the task of guarding the ammunition depot and the safety of the camp to us. I believe we can withstand the torture and test of this mountain torrent.”
Seeing this, Liang Qingshan turned to Instructor Yuan and pleaded,""Instructor Yuan, you have to help us out too, so let's return the favor and leave the task of guarding the ammunition depot and the camp to us.”
"Look, there's really nothing we can do about them. They're quite good at torturing people.”At this moment, Instructor Yuan, who had begun to soften his heart, approached Commander Gong and asked,"Why don't we just let them be? Company Commander Gong, what do you think?”
"It's not that I don't agree to let them take on the task of guarding the ammunition depot and the safety of the camp, but considering that they've been moving too hard these past few days, if we let them continue to work overtime at night, I'm afraid they won't be able to take it."
"Then the other platoons have also been working these past few days. They're just as hard.”
"Company commander, just promise us. We are all soldiers in the heavy firepower squad. We are usually stronger in physical training and are not easily worn down.”
" Besides, didn't you always encourage us to carry forward the style of 'fighting a few battles in a row without rest' and the spirit of 'fighting tough and vicious wars'?!”
、、、、、、、
Before Company Commander Gong could finish his words, Guo Yunlong, Liang Qingshan and the soldiers in the squad bombarded Company Commander Gong's body like cannonballs, making him feel like he couldn't withstand it.
"Good, good, good! I really have to hand it to you. You really know how to torture me.”Company Commander Gong had no choice but to reluctantly agree to Guo Yunlong and Liang Qingshan's request to fight. At the same time, he cautiously reminded Guo Yunlong and Liang Qingshan,""However, Squad Leader Guo, Squad Leader Liang, the security of the equipment and ammunition storage in the barracks this time is different from usual. You have to carefully arrange for the personnel to take over the shift and strengthen the sense of responsibility of the sentry patrol. At the same time, you have to pay attention to your own safety.”
"Yes, sir! Company Commander Gong, you're really cool and a good friend.”
"It's all thanks to Instructor Yuan's help.”
"All in all, the company commander and the instructor understand us the most.”
Guo Yunlong and Liang Qingshan, who had received the mission, couldn't help but praise the company commander and the instructor.
"You see, as long as you promise to assign them tasks, they will be very happy.”Instructor Yuan and Company Commander Gong also laughed.
"Alright, quickly lead everyone back to eat."
"Don't forget, you still have to come to the company headquarters to get the night password before you go up the mountain.”
"Oh, got it." Guo Yunlong excitedly agreed after hearing the final urging of the company commander and the instructor. He quickly caught up with his team.
This book comes from：m.funovel.com。