From October 1934 to October 1936, the Red Army, the forerunner of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), carried out a daring military maneuver that laid the foundation for the eventual victory of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

The Red Army marched through raging rivers, snowy mountains and arid grasslands to break the Kuomintang regime's grip on the country and to continue their fight against Japanese invaders. Some of them marched as far as 12,500 km, enduring hunger, thirst and cold.

In January 1935, the Red Army engaged the Kuomingtang's force in a heavy battle at Qinggangpo. Due to inaccurate military intelligence, the battle developed into a standoff.

At the direction of Mao Zedong, the Red Army crossed the Chishui River four times in the fight, one of the most decisive and victorious military moves during the Long March.

He Mulin was a squad leader during the Qinggangpo Battle. He stayed after being wounded. After 1949, both local government and his former comrades in arms offered to help him secure a decent job, but each time, he declined.

He also turned down stipends of food and medical treatment. "I have been lucky enough compared to those who sacrificed their lives," he frequently said when alive.

The Red Army marched through over 60 counties in Guizhou, where the Red Army regrouped, persisted and developed through its most trying period.

Over 80 years on, the Long March continues to influence and inspire the people with its message of perseverance, unity and dedication.