A group of soldiers has come out of retirement especially to help people in Longnan, Gansu Province.

A group of soldiers has come out of retirement especially to help people in Longnan, Gansu Province.

In the Lanzhou Military Area Command, there are several soldiers without markings denoting their rank. The soldiers had beem demobilized just days before the deadly earthquake hit southwest China.

Gou Yu'an's home is located in Wenxian County, the worst-affected place in Longnan, Gansu Province. He served in the army for more than ten years. He didn't care much about his own home being destroyed by the quake, and immediately set off with his old comrades.

Military Instructor of Rescue Army said "On our way to the quake-hit areas, we met these demobilized soldiers. They were eager to join us, and we agreed. They have lots of experience in rescue work. What's more, their spirit encouraged our soldiers."

Gou Yu'an, one retired soldier said "We retired, but our spirit never retires. Our hometown suffered such a great disaster, and the PLA are helping us, it's obligatory for us to join in the rescue work."

The retired soldiers prepared food and essential equipment for themselves. Gou Yu'an said they will fight the disaster for as long as it takes.

(CCTV May 21, 2008)