Wartime courier recalls dedication to his mission to uplift China

Centenarian Cui Gong was born in 1925 to a poor farming family in Shangshuitou village of Pinglu county, Shanxi province (present-day Pinglu district, Shuozhou). He is a veteran of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45).

Japanese were wreaking havoc across China when Cui Gong was just a teenager. As part of the Children's Corps, he disseminated information about the Party's policies, the Eighth Route Army, and resistance tactics.

In 1942, Cui joined the Eighth Route Army and became a confidential courier. Reflecting on his service, he emphasized the importance of delivering the confidential documents safely, often braving risks and challenges. "Those documents were more precious than our own lives. No matter the situation, we had to reach our destination before we could rest," he said.

Cui remembers the jubilation felt across the countryside when the Japanese surrendered and the dark chapter closed. "People were thrilled, and they raised hoes and shovels, hugging each other in joy," he said.

As China commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of the war, Cui Gong expressed pride in his country's progress.

"Now, China is strong," he affirmed. "We are one of the most respected nations in the world. That means the Chinese people have stood up, grown prosperous, and become powerful."

The veteran expressed hope for a continuously stronger and more respected China: "China must lay a solid foundation for enduring strength and continue to stay powerful forever."

Cui's wife, Shen Yuying, shared the significance behind their children's names, reflecting a deep-rooted patriotism and hope for prosperity. "Our children carry the aspirations for our country's prosperity in their names," she said. "As Chinese citizens, we take pride in our nation's progress and greatness." Their children's names include Jianzhong and Jianhua. The final characters in the names combine to form zhonghua - China - symbolically meaning "build China".

Despite his age, Cui Gong's spirit remains unwavering: "I don't believe Japan would dare to attack China again. But even in my old age, I would still join the military to defend against any threat."

After transitioning from military service to governance in Shanyin county in 1948, Cui's dedication to his country continued through various roles, culminating in his retirement in 1991 after a lifetime of service to his nation and people.