Veteran Tan Shiguo's life embodies China's resilience

On Aug 15, 1945, Japanese Emperor Hirohito announced his country's surrender in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45). This pivotal moment in history is embodied in the life of Tan Shiguo, a 101-year-old army veteran from Southwest China's Chongqing. His experiences in the war are a testament to the enduring strength of courage, resilience, and an unyielding spirit to forge a brighter future.

Born into a farmer's family in Chongqing's Wanzhou district in 1924, Tan joined the army when he was 16.

During a critical battle against the Japanese army in Shandong province in 1941, Tan led his squad in a daring charge, displaying remarkable bravery.

"With no time to hesitate, my father decisively hurled a grenade into the enemy ranks, seizing the moment to retreat swiftly," said Tan Wenyin, Tan Shiguo's son. "In that battle, my father took down three Japanese soldiers with his rifle."

After Japan's surrender, Tan Shiguo continued his military service through the War of Liberation (1946-49) and the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea (1950-53). At the Battle of Shangganling, or Triangle Hill, he was injured by bomb fragments, leaving a lasting palm-sized scar on his left thigh.

In 1953, Tan was discharged from the army and returned to his hometown, where he became the village head of Chadian.

His leadership and vision transformed the community. In the 1980s, he spearheaded efforts to embrace agricultural innovations, introducing citrus grafting and silkworm breeding, which revitalized the local economy.

Tan's legacy of service and leadership extends to his family. His grandson, Tan Mingfeng, joined the military to follow in his footsteps.