On October 16, during an interview with Deng Zhaoxiang, a skilled sniper active in joint exercises in the Wumeng Mountains, she shared her experiences from the recent training sessions that followed the National Day holiday. “In this exercise, we had two veterans awarded second-class merit and 17 awarded third-class merit taking on key roles,” Deng noted. “Moving forward, we aim to excel as commanders and outstanding training personnel.”
Since 2018, a total of 646 soldiers from Weining, known as the “Highland Soldiers,” have received honors with over 100 awards annually for six consecutive years. This includes two first-class, 13 second-class, and 631 third-class merit awards. Notable figures like Deng Zhaoxiang, Zhao Haiyong, Min Xiangdong, Wang Yingxue, and Ma Juwei have emerged as role models, helping to establish the unique brand of the Weining “Highland Soldiers.”
These award recipients come from various branches, including the Army, Air Force, and Armed Police, with many recognized as specialists and top trainers. Some have even earned medals in international competitions while setting new records. After retiring, these exemplary soldiers are selected by the Bijie Military Sub-district to become militia instructors. They employ a “mixed grouping, man and equipment integration” strategy, pairing specialized personnel and support teams based on wartime tasks and strengths for coordinated training and practical drills. This approach has led to a training system that is both well-structured and adaptable.
A leader from the Bijie Military Sub-district emphasized, “Only by training together during peacetime can we ensure coordinated support during wartime.” They have developed a precise militia training plan that encompasses joint exercises, ensuring that training is intertwined at every level.
At the militia exercise site, a drone unit relayed intelligence, enabling an assault team to clear obstacles, while a repair team quickly responded based on reconnaissance data. Deng Zhaoxiang, who participated in the drills, noted the palpable intensity of the training environment, stating, “I not only sensed the ‘smell of gunpowder’ but also felt the tremendous impact these exercises have on the entire ‘battlefield.’”
In recent years, the Bijie Military Sub-district has leveraged the talent of its highland soldiers, incorporating factors like numbers, positions, specialties, and equipment for effective organization of militia forces. A leader expressed gratitude, saying, “The meritorious Highland Soldiers are taking on significant responsibilities at the forefront of training, leading the charge and greatly improving the training standards of the militia.”
