INGRATIATING CULTURE 'NON-EXISTENT' IN ROC ARMY: PRESIDENT
ROC Central News Agency
2005-09-02 15:39:52
Taipei, Sept. 2 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian claimed to the public Friday that there is no "individual heroism" or "ingratiating culture" in the armed forces of the Republic of China.
All members of the armed forces share the conviction of loyalty to the country and the people, Chen said while addressing a ceremony in which outstanding soldiers were cited on the eve of Armed Forces Day.
The statement was an indirect response to media criticism about the so-called "sycophant soldiers" at an air force base who reportedly canceled leave to practice songs and dances to welcome the president to their base. Chen later canceled a scheduled visit to the base.
Media discussion about military culture in recent days has "deviated from the proper understanding of the sacred mission of the armed forces," Chen said.
In a prepared speech to be broadcast this evening, Chen reminded the public that they should treasure what they have, which he said has been made possible partly by the armed forces, who have dedicated their time and energy to protecting the land.
He mentioned the importance of upgrading the nation's defensive weapons and the importance of unity in the armed forces and the civilian population. If the nation's military technology cannot be upgraded and if soldiers and civilians cannot unite together, no one can avoid the impact of a possible invasion by the Communist Chinese, he said.
He said he was proud that the military has been successfully "nationalized." But he urged the armed forces not to feel complacent about their achievements. Instead, they should never stop their efforts to seek a "quality" edge over the enemy, he said.
(By S.C. Chang)
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