Looking for answers: American communist explores China

Isabel Crook, 105, has witnessed much of that history personally. As one of China's oldest foreign friends, Isabel has spent most of her life in China. One example her son Michael recalled was in the assignment of living quarters of a newly-built building. CPC members were called on to choose rooms with northern exposure, meaning less warmth or light.

"So the Party was not fighting for privilege. Quite the reverse, it was offering, it was taking the hardship," Michael said.

Throughout the Party's history, members have stepped up to fight the difficult battles before anyone else. Whether repelling invasion, alleviating poverty or facing down natural disasters, Party members are the first to rise to the challenge.

The CPC is driven by its original values, not by personal gain or profit. That's one key to its continued success. Goodrum learned this and more during his travels.