Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of China held the closing ceremony of the “National Defense University Military Academy Class 113 (2024) Patriotism Education” on the 2nd. Minister of National Defense, Gu Li-hsiung, chaired the event and addressed the importance of maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait while demonstrating the determination of self-defense to the world in the face of the Chinese Communist Party’s ambitions to annex Taiwan.
According to the Military News Agency, the closing ceremony of the “National Defense University Military Academy Class 113 (2024) Patriotism Education” took place on the Fukengang campus of the National Defense University on the 2nd. In his speech, Minister Gu Li-hsiung expressed his belief in the unlimited potential of the new military officers and emphasized the importance of the patriotism education program in preparing them to become the backbone of the military as they are deployed to various units nationwide.
Minister Gu mentioned that he may not distinctly remember the feelings upon graduating from school, but he understands the daily challenges and commitments he faces now, just like the new officers. He encouraged them to dedicate themselves fully to each mission in the future, emphasizing that their duty is to safeguard the Republic of China, protect the hard-won democratic way of life, maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait and the surrounding region, and uphold the right of self-determination for all generations of people.
“Taiwan’s freedom and democracy are facing serious challenges. The Chinese Communist Party has never concealed its ambition to annex Taiwan, continuously engaging in tactics such as instigation in the grey area, military mobilization, diplomatic isolation, economic coercion, and cognitive warfare to weaken our unity and resistance. However, we must maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait and the stability of the Indo-Pacific region. Through the innovation and efforts of an open society, a resilient national freedom and democracy system, we will continue to demonstrate our determination for self-defense to the world,” Minister Gu stated.
Minister Gu emphasized the importance of honesty in facing uncertainties and grave collective threats. He expressed confidence that by being honest with family, friends, colleagues, superiors, the country, and most importantly, with oneself, the nation can effectively confront and resolve problems amidst a climate of deception and mistrust.
In addressing threats from adversaries, the country will spare no effort in acquiring resources to meet operational needs, deploying advanced weapons and equipment for asymmetric warfare, implementing realistic combat training programs, and developing scientific models for operational and logistical plans. The goal is to enhance the capabilities of the armed forces and equip them with modernized capabilities to defend Taiwan, fight, and win battles effectively. Minister Gu highlighted the pivotal role each officer currently receiving education plays in this process.
Lastly, Minister Gu urged everyone not to be constrained by conventions and to strive for innovation. By adding significance to their roles within the military, the armed forces will continue to improve. As vital defense forces of the country, every new officer holds the power to strengthen the military and contribute to progress, ensuring a safer Taiwan.