Editor's note: The Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Political Work Department of the Central Military Commission have awarded the "most beautiful revolutionary soldiers of the new era" designation every year since 2021, honoring dedicated personnel in China's armed services. In July, 12 more service members were awarded this title. Here are the stories of two of them.

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As one of the 12 recipients of this year's "most beautiful revolutionary soldiers of the new era" designation awarded in July, Ma Shaoli remains humble.

The exemplary naval officer has grown from being a poor rural boy to a walking encyclopedia of naval artillery.

As a command master chief petty officer aboard frigate CNS Ziyang in the People's Liberation Army Navy, Ma has devoted 27 years to mastering his craft, embodying the modern soldier's excellence and dedication.

"I don't have any special talent. Just years of hard work," Ma said.