Scenes from the edges of parade

Photos capture moving moments

CHINA DAILY Wu Zhiyi PHOTOGRAPHER

Although I have participated in a number of reporting assignments on major events in a career spanning nearly 40 years, Thursday was the first time I've ever been positioned on the viewing stand at the Tian'anmen Gate Tower, a well-known symbol of China.

It was a rare chance for a professional photographer to take pictures of a major event from this vantage point.

Seeing veteran soldiers who served in the war 70 years ago, as well as friends and guests from around the world, was also a novelty.

While I considered potential shots, many familiar faces came into view as the sun rose. Among them were veterans of the Red Army and figures dedicated to revolutionary missions.

Seventy years have passed since the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1937-45). Many veterans are alive－including my father, who is more than 90 years old. Many have been troubled by health problems due to their age, and some were not able to witness the commemorations at the heart of the capital city.

For those capable of attending the event, the long wait at the viewing stand did not dampen their excitement. Most of them were in high spirits throughout the parade.

When they saw the spectacular presentations of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, a number of them couldn't hold back tears.

I did not weep with them, but I was deeply touched, partly because I was once a soldier. Several told me they were impressed by the increasing strength of the motherland and China's rising status around the world.

And we cannot forget that today's peace was anchored by their courage decades ago.

As foreign leaders stood to honor the parading soldiers, they sent a clear signal that championing peace is a joint mission that involves all the countries in the world.