President Tsai Ing-wen traveled to the southern city of Kaohsiung Thursday to visit the troops of the army’s 564th armored brigade.
Tsai oversaw an exercise by the brigade simulating an enemy attack on the airport in the neighboring southern city of Tainan. She also addressed the troops, many of whom will remain on duty over the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday.
Tsai said that her main reason for visiting was to thank the troops on behalf of the nation’s people for staying at their posts and protecting the country. Tsai said the military’s training is the reason that Taiwan’s people are able to enjoy their ordinary lives. In addition to thanking the troops, Tsai also presented them with New Year’s decorations and cash bonuses.