China has had many heroes and exemplary individuals in its military who have served the country during times of war, such as Huang Jiguang and Dong Cunrui, who sacrificed themselves for victory, inspiring generations to come.

In times without conflict, however, China's armed forces are no less dedicated and diligent in their overriding mission of defending the motherland.

One such individual is Zhang Cancan, who in July was named one of the 12 "most beautiful revolutionary soldiers of the new era" by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Political Work Department of the Central Military Commission.

Since 2021, this designation has been awarded to outstanding members of the People's Liberation Army who are considered models of dedication, skills and service.

In his 23-year career, Zhang has risen from being an ordinary soldier to a battalion commander in the PLA Ground Force's 76th combined corps. He's played an exemplary role in guiding his fellow troops and cultivating great soldiers, winning the trust of those under his command.

Born in 1984, Zhang joined the army in 2002. He has taken part in a dozen major operations and missions, from earthquake rescue to large-scale military exercises.

His name, Cancan, means "to shine" in Chinese, and he has done his name proud.

Over the past 14 years as an officer, he has trained various skilled personnel, and fellow soldiers describe him as "sharp yet steady", a reflection of both his professional skills and personal character.

One incident in 2020, in particular, left a deep impression on his unit. During a mission on a plateau more than 5,000 meters above sea level, a soldier fainted from acute altitude sickness. Vehicles were stuck in soft, melted snow, making it impossible to reach the stricken man by road, Zhang recalled.