President Tsai Ing-wen has spoken at the ROC Military Academy’s 92nd anniversary ceremony. ROC is short for the Republic of China, Taiwan’s official name.
Tsai’s appearance at the event marks her first inspection of a mass military drill as Taiwan’s new commander-in-chief. She spoke about the Academy’s history and heritage. She said she expects all the officers and students to do their best to serve their country and be trail blazers for the country’s development.
Tsai also said that the new government will stand firmly by the military’s side.
"We need highly disciplined soldiers to protect our nation’s soil, and you are the selected ones. Since our nation has chosen you to serve, you need to be prepared to sacrifice yourself," said Tsai. "The old saying goes, ‘this is no place for the weak and the fearful and those who seek promotion and fortune should look elsewhere’. I hereby encourage all of you once again with these old words, and I hope you’ll work hard to win [people’s] honor and respect."
Tsai also encouraged all military personnel to set aside differences and unite for the benefit of the nation.
"In this new era, I expect all of us to unite, take responsibility, and sacrifice for the Republic of China, its democratic system, and its 23 million inhabits’ freedom," Tsai said.
Tsai lastly read the will of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the ROC’s founding father, and called for everyone to work with her in moving the country forward.