On the upcoming Armed Forces Day of the Republic of China on September 3rd, the Ministry of National Defense has released a promotional video titled “With Me Here, You Can Rest Assured,” with the aim of garnering support from the public for the strength of the national armed forces. Additionally, the Ministry of National Defense has launched a groundbreaking nationwide initiative with military-themed bus shelters to convey the core values of “safeguarding the people and defending the nation” upheld by the armed forces at all times.
The Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of China unveiled the promotional video “With Me Here, You Can Rest Assured” at a press conference today. The video depicts scenarios where unfriendly naval vessels harass and threaten democratic freedoms, while the people of the country go about their daily lives queueing for work, walking hand in hand, and spreading warmth and love through smiles. Behind the façade of this peaceful everyday life, whether on the streets, in the skies, or at sea, the presence of the national armed forces is constant, symbolizing the unity and strength of the military and civilians nationwide moving forward together.
Major General Lou Wei-jie, Director of the Political Warfare Office of the Taiwan Ministry of National Defense, expressed that the September 3rd Armed Forces Day is not solely a military occasion but a day for the entire nation. The video highlights the unity between the military and the people, emphasizing that this unity is the most vital force and support in defending the nation’s democratic freedoms. He called on everyone to show their support and cheer for the armed forces and the Republic of China.
During the press conference, the Taiwan Ministry of National Defense also announced a collaboration with the Taipei City Government’s Public Transportation Office to introduce a series of military-themed bus shelters around nine locations near the Ministry of National Defense. These bus shelters feature friendly and simple images and comics to convey the message of the armed forces constantly “safeguarding the people and defending the nation” to the public while they wait for their buses.
Lou Wei-jie further explained that starting from Dazhi Station, themes such as “Someone Will Always Value You More Than Themselves” were chosen, depicting interactions between soldiers and schoolchildren and showcasing images of the Dazhi Bridge and the Ministry of National Defense to symbolize the long-standing relationship between the Ministry of National Defense and the people of Dazhi. At the Dazhi High School Station, the watercolor-style theme “My 20s, My Willingness to Step Up” conveys that military service is both a duty and a responsibility, as societal stability and people’s well-being are ensured by the protection provided by the armed forces.
The Taiwan Ministry of National Defense noted that content from the Air Force Command Station, depicting personnel from the land, sea, and air forces carrying out their missions, conveys the message that behind the facade of “calm and peaceful years passing by” lies the dedication of military personnel fulfilling their duties at their posts with sweat and passion to safeguard democratic freedoms – achievements that are not achieved effortlessly. Finally, at the Loyalty Shrine Station, photos of the ceremonial exchange of guards by the shrine guard detail, alongside the tagline “On the ordinary path, extraordinary protection is achieved,” showcase the dedication of loyal martyrs protecting the eternal prosperity of the Republic of China.
From now until November 29th, the Taiwan Ministry of National Defense invites residents near Dazhi, soldiers, and every Taiwanese citizen passing by the bus shelters to appreciate the posters and artworks up close, allowing them to experience firsthand the spirit of the armed forces tirelessly safeguarding the nation’s security and democratic freedoms. Through this initiative, the Ministry aims to garner greater support and appreciation for the armed forces from the public.