Changjin Lake: From Xinxingli to Seoul

Chapter 276 Wu Wanli Promoted! The Seventh Steel Regiment Expands and Raises Ranks! All Members Promoted!
Seoul, Blue House, Zhi Si

"Boss, the General Staff has conducted several more simulations."

"The best-case scenario predicted for Incheon is that it will only severely damage the US 1st Infantry Division; completely annihilating it is too difficult!"

"The difference between a perfect score and 99 points is only one point, but the difficulty is worlds apart."

"If Wanli really didn't completely annihilate them, then it's still a great achievement. Promoting him to the position of brigade commander and letting him command more than 7,000 soldiers wouldn't be too much to ask, would it?"

Chief Chen sighed and said.

"Old Chen, why do you have so little confidence in Wanli?"

"You gave me several promotion proposals from Wanli after he wiped out the US Army's 1st Division a long time ago!"

"I think the third promotion plan is good; it's perfect for that kid Wu Wanli!"

The boss was silent for a few seconds before speaking.

"Boss, it's too difficult to annihilate an entire unit in one fell swoop."

"We can have expectations, but we can't let that hinder a good comrade's path to advancement, can we?"

"After all, he once commanded a naval fleet to annihilate the US Navy and seize aircraft carriers and battleships. That's a great achievement!"

Chief Chen adjusted his black-rimmed glasses and said in a low voice.

Upon hearing this, the boss paused for a few seconds, then simply nodded without saying anything.

"report!"

At this moment, a hurried shout broke the solemn atmosphere in the room, instantly attracting the attention of everyone in the command post.

A volunteer army communications officer practically burst through the door, his chest heaving, but his face flushed with excitement and disbelief.

"Reporting, Commander! Chief Chen!"

"A call from Incheon!"

"A resounding victory in the Battle of Incheon!"

"The last large-scale elite force of the U.S. Army's 1st Division has been completely annihilated by the 7th Steel Regiment in the fire of Songyue Mountain!"

"Comrade Wu Wanli successfully led the 7th Steel Regiment in a blitzkrieg against the enemy division command post and captured US Lieutenant General Thomas himself!"

"Lieutenant General Thomas has ordered the remaining American troops on the Incheon battlefield to surrender!"

The volunteer army communications officer gripped the telegram tightly with both hands, his voice trembling slightly with excitement as he shouted.

Instantly, the entire operations room fell into a deathly silence; you could hear a pin drop.

The staff officers stopped what they were doing and all eyes were fixed on the communications officer.

The expressions on the faces of the boss and Chief Chen froze, a mixture of extreme surprise and disbelief.

Less than two hours earlier, they were worried about whether the defenders of Songyueshan could withstand the three-pronged attack by the US forces, about the collapse of the situation after the artillery positions were lost, and even about whether Wu Wanli could hold out until the 12th Army broke through Rendongli!

They knew Wu Wanli's plan was dangerous and placed their hopes on it, but they never expected that victory would come so quickly and so thoroughly!
"what?!"

"The entire US Army 1st Division was annihilated?!"

"They even...captured a US lieutenant general?!"

"Are you sure the telegram is correct?"

"Quickly! Read it! Read the detailed battle report!"

Chief Chen broke the silence first, stepping up to the communications officer, his voice filled with undisguised surprise and doubt.
"Yes!"

The messenger took a deep breath, trying to remain calm, but his voice still betrayed his shock. He unfolded the telegram and began to read it aloud.

"On the Songyue Mountain battlefield, the US military used aircraft, ground infantry and tanks in coordination, and tunnel assault teams to launch a general offensive against the core positions of the 7th Steel Regiment."

"The 7th Steel Regiment fought back step by step according to the pre-arranged fire attack plan, relying on the deep defense line and tunnel traps, and inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy."

"After the main force of the US military broke through to the Tree Fort defense line, our troops concentrated their firepower and launched a fierce attack. At the same time, we detonated gasoline and firewood that had been placed in various locations, and ordered the Thunder Artillery Battalion to unleash the remaining incendiary bombs."

"A formation of Chinese Air Force fighter jets arrived in time and dropped white phosphorus incendiary bombs."

"Instantly, the entire eastern slope of Songyue Mountain was engulfed in flames, and the main force of the Harrison Brigade of the 1st Division of the U.S. Army, along with several thousand remaining officers and soldiers, were almost completely destroyed."

"After the victory at Songyue Mountain, the 7th Steel Regiment, led by Wu Wanli, launched a surprise attack on the headquarters of the US Army 1st Division outside Songyue Mountain and successfully captured the enemy division commander, Lieutenant General Thomas!"

Thomas immediately ordered a surrender, and the American troops in Indong-ri, which were under heavy attack by the 12th Army, and the American troops fighting in the urban streets of Incheon gave up their last resistance!

"At this point, all remaining forces of the U.S. Army's 1st Division have been completely wiped out!"

"Objective achieved: annihilation of the main force of the US Army's 1st Division! The spoils of war were enormous!"

After reading it aloud, the volunteer army messenger quickly looked at it several more times, afraid that he had misread it.

After hearing the story, the staff officers in the command post were all speechless, their mouths agape, as if they were listening to a storyteller's tale.

Every tactical step, every decisive detail, from the frantic deployment of the fire attack to the final surprise attack and decapitation strike, is now clearly presented in the report.

The expressions of the commander and Chief Chen changed with the content of the battle report, from initial shock to disbelief, and then to listening intently.

When they heard the final words "the entire US Army 1st Division was annihilated" and "Lieutenant General Thomas was captured," the shock on their faces was even more intense than when they first heard "a great victory"!
The boss slowly walked to the huge battle map and looked at the location representing Songyue Mountain.

He was silent for a moment, then slammed his fist heavily on the location of Incheon on the map, a hint of barely suppressed elation flashing in his eyes.

"Great! Well done! Excellent play!"

"Wu Wanli's fighting skills are amazing!"

"Old Chen, look at this! Look at this tactic!"

"Use yourselves as bait to lure the enemy into a trap, deploy layers of defense to wear down their morale, and use the last of your artillery fire as a spearhead to strike at the enemy's vital assembly point!"

"At the critical moment, ignite a massive fire across the mountain, and in conjunction with the Air Force's white phosphorus bombs, achieve a complete and utter annihilation!"

"In the end, they were able to crawl out of the inferno, storm the enemy's stronghold, and capture the American lieutenant general alive!"

"Every step was audacious, yet incredibly precise!"

The boss's voice was a little hoarse from excitement, but it was incredibly loud as he spoke.

"Indeed! Courage! How much courage does that take!"

"Turn the entire Songaksan Mountain into a giant crematorium, and put yourself and the command post in the most dangerous place as bait."

"A firm grasp of timing, absolute trust in the troops' execution capabilities, and accurate prediction of the US military's psychology... none of these can be lacking!"

"Although we knew the general outline of the plan beforehand, it's still amazing that it was executed this well!"

"When we approved his plan, we only knew it was a perilous situation where we had to face death to survive. I was even hoping that they could inflict heavy damage on the enemy."

"Who would have thought... that he would deliver such a tremendous surprise to us, annihilating the enemy's elite main force and capturing the US lieutenant general alive!"

"This command ability is truly divine! One in a thousand! No, one in ten thousand!"

"Wu Wanli's victory in this battle can be described as a triumph over the peninsula, a feat that will resonate throughout history!"

"This battle has destroyed one of the Americans' most important arms, giving us crucial strategic retreat space!"

"Now we can order Li Yunlong and his men to slowly retreat!"

Chief Chen nodded heavily, his face filled with a complex mix of admiration and lingering fear as he spoke.

"That's not all! With the war going on like this, the MiG fighter jet production line was definitely provided as free aid!"

"Although I am willing to trust Big Brother's character, if the lieutenant general of the U.S. Army 1st Division ran away with his command staff, they would still have a reason to say that it was not a complete annihilation."

"But now the port is ours, and the sea route is blocked."

"The helicopter that could have taken away the US commanders was also destroyed by Wanli. The air corridor was gone, and since it was in our rear, there was no possibility of escape."

"With Lieutenant General Thomas captured and ordered the entire unit to surrender, this was a flawless, complete annihilation of the entire unit; there's no denying it!"

"Unless the Soviet Union no longer wants its influence and reputation within the Red Bloc."

"I come from a poor farming family, and I know all too well how hard it is for farmers to make a living from the fields."

"If we fail to win the war and have to take their food supplies in exchange for fighter jet production lines, I will feel more ashamed than if I had suffered ten major defeats!"

The boss thought of the hardships and hunger of the peasant era and said with emotion.

"Immediately inform Soviet advisor Ivan of this situation and have him report it back to the Soviet Union!"

"In addition, Wu Wanli led the 7th Steel Regiment back to Seoul to receive organizational expansion and promotions in military ranks!"

"The 12th Army will leave one of its main divisions stationed in Incheon, and Ding Wei and An Changsen will take the rest back to Seoul!"

"Wu Wanli's Seventh Steel Regiment needs to be expanded, and we'll have to temporarily select soldiers from their army!"

"I wonder if Comrade Ding Wei will complain, saying that Wu Wanli has snatched away his veterans?"

Chief Chen smiled and said.

I don't think so!

"Comrade Ding Wei is also very conscientious, as can be seen from this battle report."

"He reported Wu Wanli's military achievements in great detail, but only mentioned the attack on Ren Dongli by his own 12th Army."

The boss shook his head and said trustingly.

"Right!"

"After all... he's not like that kid Li Yunlong, who only wants to take advantage and not suffer losses!"

"When he was first sent to a clothing factory and then reinstated, he managed to take a large batch of new military uniforms with him!"

Chief Chen said, not knowing whether to laugh or cry.

"Hahahahahahahahahaha..."

Upon hearing this, the chief of staff and others in the command post all burst into laughter.

Li Yunlong fought his way from Shanxi to the Korean War, and his reputation for being stingy and greedy was widespread.

However, after laughing, they looked towards the south of the Han River, feeling somewhat worried about the situation of Li Yunlong's troops.

Although Li Yunlong was stingy, his daring and aggressive style made him popular with many leaders, especially Commander Chen.

"Commander, the Battle of Incheon is a complete victory! The U.S. 1st Infantry Division has been annihilated, and the retreat route has been opened!"

"This battle can't drag on any longer, it's time to go!"

"Chief Chen said."

"that's right!"

"Have the General Staff immediately formulate a specific withdrawal plan that suits the current war situation, so as not to cause too many casualties!"

The boss nodded and said.

"Incheon is not far from Seoul, and the 7th Steel Regiment just won a great victory and captured vehicles, so they will definitely be back soon."

"Boss, I think we should prepare an awards ceremony beforehand, and personally commend the Seventh Steel Regiment, how about that?"

"With so many military achievements, it seems that the honors bestowed upon Wu Wanli alone are insufficient!"

Chief Chen proposed.

"no problem!"

"Tell the comrades below to make proper arrangements. I will definitely go there to see this elite regiment from the Korean War!"

Upon hearing this, the boss immediately nodded in agreement.

"Commander Chen, why are you suddenly wearing a thick cotton coat?"

At this moment, the chief of staff standing to the side asked in confusion.

"I will go thirty miles outside the city to personally welcome our meritorious comrades!"

"The military affairs within the headquarters are temporarily entrusted to the commander and you!"

Chief Chen put on his heavy cotton overcoat, adjusted his black-rimmed glasses, and spoke.

"Old Chen, your care for Wu Wanli is even greater than your care for Li Yunlong back then!"

The boss couldn't help but sigh as he watched Chief Chen's actions.

"It is only right that those who have made contributions receive care and protection!"

Chief Chen smiled and walked outside.

"Gather a company of guards and vehicles, and follow Commander Chen!"

The boss watched Chief Chen's hurried departure and immediately gave the order.

....................................

Seoul, Cho-gu Army Headquarters
The spacious military conference room still smelled of tobacco from an earlier meeting.

Lin Zhengshun, commander of the 9th Army, and Quan Douguang, commander of the 8th Army, sat facing each other, exchanging opinions in hushed tones on the subsequent joint deployment and supply issues between the two armies.

Lin Zhengshun's brows furrowed with his usual composure, while Quan Douguang's voice boomed like a bell, displaying a rather bold and unrestrained manner.

Just then, the door was suddenly pushed open, and Lu Taijian practically barged in.

He clutched a newly translated telegram tightly in his hand, his chest heaving violently, his forehead covered in sweat, clearly having rushed all the way.

"A great victory! A tremendous victory!"

Lu Taijian's voice trembled slightly with excitement, almost cracking.

Lin Zhengshun and Quan Douguang looked up at the same time, startled by Lu Taijian's urgent appearance.

"Ah Xiba!"

"You're already a division commander, yet you're still so reckless!"

"We are officers who fought alongside Wukaka, and we cannot disgrace him!"

"Speak, what's causing such panic? What great victory?"

Quan Douguang first gave him a displeased scolding, then quickly asked.

"Commander! It's the great victory at Wukaka!"

"Incheon...Incheon direction! Wu Kaka has led his troops to...to completely annihilate the US 1st Infantry Division!"

"Even Lieutenant General Thomas of the 1st Division Command of the U.S. Army... was captured alive by a commando team led by Wukaka!"

"The remaining U.S. troops have all surrendered! The entire 1st Army Division has been completely wiped out!"

Lu Taijian tried to calm his breathing, presented the telegram to Lin Zhengshun with both hands, and said in a voice that was still trembling with disbelief.

"what?!"

The two battle-hardened army commanders jumped up from their chairs almost simultaneously!

Lin Zhengshun snatched the telegram, his hawk-like eyes quickly scanning the text.

Quan Douguang disregarded etiquette, squeezed next to Lin Zhengshun, pointed his thick finger at the key part of the telegram, and stared wide-eyed.

In an instant, the previously composed military headquarters was enveloped in an atmosphere of extreme shock and disbelief.

"To completely annihilate an entire elite U.S. division?"

"This was a top-tier US Army division with 30,000 elite troops and three brigades when it first landed, and it's been wiped out!!"

Quan Douguang's voice sounded as if it had been sanded, filled with horror.

He had fought in Incheon not long ago, so he knew the strength of the US military, and the 1st Marine Division was an absolute elite force.

"They even captured the lieutenant general division commander alive?"

"My God! Is this Wu Kaka a human or a god?"

"I originally thought that Wu Kaka would at most lead the 7th Steel Regiment to defend to the death first, and the final general offensive would mainly rely on the 12th Army."

"Unexpectedly... the 12th Army became a mere foil in the feint attack?"

Lin Zhengshun's hand holding the telegram trembled slightly, almost imperceptibly.

He had long anticipated that Wu Wanli would create a miracle, and even went so far as to publicize his deeds in the army to boost morale.

But he never expected that this miracle would be so earth-shattering!

He instantly pictured his sister, Lin Yoona, blushing when she mentioned Wu Wanli, and thought to himself that his sister certainly had good taste.

"By taking part in the game, one can gain an advantage over fate. Now I understand the true meaning of these eight words!"

"No matter how much the Westerners' God helps these American soldiers, it's useless!"

"The US Army's 1st Division is doomed; even Jesus can't save them!!!"

Quan Douguang excitedly slapped his thigh, his shock quickly turning into ecstasy and almost fanatical praise.

"The telegram mentioned that the headquarters was also greatly shaken, and Chief Chen even wanted to personally go out of the city thirty miles to welcome the meritorious officials!"

Lu Taijian took a deep breath and added from the side.

This news brought Lin Zhengshun back to his senses, and his eyes shone with an even brighter light.

Wu Wanli has made an unparalleled contribution and will surely be promoted and receive great honors.

As one of the first senior North Korean military officers to follow him, Lin Zhengshun keenly realized that this was the best time to consolidate the friendship between China and North Korea and to further shape Wu Wanli's noble image in the hearts of the North Korean military and people!
Building momentum and gaining prestige for this potential future brother-in-law is absolutely beneficial in every way!
"Commander-in-Chief! Wu Kaka has performed such a remarkable feat, enhancing the prestige of our army and nation, and shattering the enemy's courage! The leaders of the Volunteer Army Headquarters have already bestowed upon him the highest honors!"

"We, the people and soldiers of North Korea, must also show our utmost enthusiasm to make Commander-in-Chief Wu and his 7th Steel Regiment feel our deepest respect and gratitude!"

"I suggest that we immediately mobilize all North Korean military personnel and civilians that we can muster in Seoul and the surrounding areas!"

"In addition to the commendation from the comrade-in-arms, we stepped forward and organized an even larger and more enthusiastic team!"

"Mobilize all North Korean officers and soldiers and their families in and around Seoul!"

"Prepare flowers, colorful flags, and banners for me, and organize a drum and gong team for me too!"

"All the city gates and main roads of Seoul, especially the main road leading into the city, should be filled with Korean soldiers and civilians to welcome me!"

"We must make this a grand spectacle, bigger than ever before!"

"Let the entire Seoul be submerged in a sea of ​​welcome for the heroes' return!"

"This is not icing on the cake; it is what Wukaka and his warriors deserve!"

"We want the world to see how much heroes are revered in North Korea!"

"The honor bestowed upon Wu Wanli must be ten times, a hundred times, greater than anyone anticipated!"

Lin Zhengshun immediately turned to Quan Douguang and said excitedly.

"Holy crap! This is brilliant! That's exactly what we should do!"

"Let those others see how we North Koreans welcome the true heroes who defeated them!"

"Let our soldiers see that this glory is earned through blood and sweat!"

Quan Douguang was taken aback by Lin Zhengshun's sudden suggestion, but then his face lit up with excitement.

"Someone! Issue the order immediately!"

"An urgent joint order is issued in the name of the headquarters of the New Eighth Army and the headquarters of Commander Lin's North Korean Ninth Army!"

"Order all Korean People's Army personnel, military families, and civilian organizations in and around Seoul to take immediate action!"

"All available personnel and supplies must be concentrated at the main entrances and city gates within one hour, as instructed by Commander Lin!"

"Sound the gongs and horns as loudly as possible! Shout the slogans and banners as loudly as you can! Make as much noise as you can!"

"We must make Seoul look like a city turned upside down to welcome Commander Wu's triumphant return! Go now!"

He slammed his hand on the table and roared at the adjutant at the door.

"Jeon Kaka, could my sister Yoona... go too?!"

"Make her dress up nicely and stand in the welcoming party, and finally present her with flowers to Wu Kaka in Seoul."

Lin Zhengshun smiled a little embarrassedly, and lowered his voice at the end of his sentence.

"Hahahaha...No problem!"

Upon hearing this, Quan Douguang immediately understood Lin Zhengshun's thoughts and laughed loudly.

....................................

Thirty miles outside Seoul, where Chief Chen was waiting.

"Commander, they're here!"

A guard from a high vantage point, observing the Volunteer Army soldiers, shouted loudly as he looked into the distance.

"Great! What a perfect timing!"

Upon hearing this, Chief Chen immediately picked up his binoculars and looked into the distance.

A convoy of trucks and jeeps, fully loaded with soldiers of the Seventh Steel Regiment, came driving by.

In the car
Wu Wanli leaned against the car wall, closing his eyes to rest. The gunpowder stains on his face had not yet faded, and a new scratch had formed a dark brown scab on his cheekbone.

Lei Gong, standing beside him, had blood-soaked gauze wrapped around his ear, while Yu Congrong occasionally stroked his bandaged wound, their silence filled with the exhaustion and grim atmosphere of the battle.

They had just annihilated the U.S. 1st Infantry Division and captured Lieutenant General Thomas, accomplishing a mission that seemed almost impossible.

Suddenly, the lead car slammed on its brakes!

"hiss--------"

The screeching sound of brakes shattered the temporary tranquility.

"what happened?"

Wu Wanli opened his eyes instantly, his sharp gaze looking forward through the car window.

Other key members on the vehicle, such as Lei Gong, Yu Congrong, and Ping He, also tensed up instantly, their hands instinctively reaching for the weapons beside them.

Having just returned from a brutal battlefield, any unexpected situation is enough to trigger their instinctive vigilance.

However, the sight that came into view stunned them all.

It was neither an enemy situation nor a dangerous obstacle.

Not far ahead on the road, several military jeeps painted with the Zhili Commander logo and adorned with bright red flags were parked quietly by the roadside.

Standing next to the lead car was a tall, composed Chief Chen!
Behind him stood several senior staff officers and guards from the Volunteer Army Headquarters.

"Yes...it's Chief Chen!"

"How...how did they get here?"

"Wait! Thirty miles outside the city?"

"This is an honor, an extremely high honor!"

Liu Hanqing was the first to recognize her, his voice filled with unbelievable excitement, instantly dispelling the tense atmosphere in the car.

Wu Wanli's heart jolted, a shock far beyond his expectations that made him hold his breath.

Commander Chen actually led a team to the edge of the battlefield, which was still thirty miles away from Seoul, to welcome them.
This honor and recognition is more weighty than any medal.

After the initial shock came an overwhelming sense of respect and a touch of unease.

"Everyone get out of the car!"

Wu Wanli took a deep breath and gave the order decisively.

The truck doors opened one after another, and Wu Wanli was the first to jump off the truck. His movements were still swift, but his steps carried the heaviness of days of fierce fighting.

Liu Hanqing, Lei Gong, Yu Congrong, Ping He and other key officers and soldiers followed closely behind, quickly lining up behind Wu Wanli.

Despite being exhausted and injured, despite their torn uniforms stained with mud, blood, and burn marks, they stood ramrod straight.

Each person's face was etched with the marks of hardship and perseverance, and their eyes, besides showing shock, also conveyed excitement at being trusted by their superior and a heavy sense of responsibility.

Wu Wanli straightened the brim of his military cap, adjusted the dust-covered collar, and strode confidently toward Commander Chen.

About five steps away from the leader, he swiftly raised his arm in salute, the movement precise and powerful, causing the dust on his arm to flutter slightly.

"Report to the chief!"

"Wu Wanli, commander of the 7th Steel Regiment of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army, and his core combat personnel are reporting for duty!"

"You've worked hard, Commander!"

His voice was loud and clear, filled with heartfelt excitement, piercing the silence of the wilderness. The officers behind him, with perfectly synchronized movements, saluted Commander Chen in unison, just as they would on a training field.

The chilling atmosphere of the battlefield seemed to solidify into an invisible aura under their standard military salute.

Chief Chen's smile was warm and gratifying, even tinged with undisguised heartache.

Without pausing, he quickly came to meet him!

"Wanli! Wanli! Good! Good! Good!"

"You guys fought well in the Battle of Incheon!"

Chief Chen said "good" three times in a row, his voice loud and powerful, yet deeply moved.

Instead of returning the salute, he grabbed Wu Wanli's saluting arm tightly and forcefully pulled it down.

Then Chief Chen patted Wu Wanli's shoulder heavily, the force conveying unspoken strength and trust.

His sharp eyes, which had seen countless battles, swept over everyone behind Wu Wanli.

The white gauze on Lei Gong's head and ears, Yu Congrong's arm in a sling, the charred marks on Ping He's face from the flames...

Each person wore a military uniform that was torn by shrapnel, blackened by gunpowder smoke, and even stained with unwashed blood and covered in mud.

Especially noticeable were the dark red scab on Wu Wanli's face and his tired yet still bright eyes.

"Comrades! You've worked hard!"

"Look at you! Look at what you're all dressed like this!"

"These aren't just military uniforms! These are the indestructible medals of your Steel Seventh Regiment!"

"It is with your blood and loyalty that you have carved this monument of merit for our motherland!"

"You fought beautifully! You fought decisively!"

"We have displayed the might of our Volunteer Army! We have demonstrated the national prestige of the new China!"

"In the Battle of Songyue Mountain, an American general fell and surrendered, and the powerful enemy was annihilated. This was a great victory that will go down in history!"

"It is destined to be a glorious chapter in the history of world military affairs!"

Chief Chen's voice suddenly rose, and he could no longer suppress his heartache and excitement.

Faced with such high praise and deep concern from their leader, Wu Wanli and the heroes behind him felt a surge of emotion rushing to their heads.

The fierce battles of the past few days, the tragic sacrifices of our brothers, and the arduous struggles have all received the highest and warmest recognition at this moment.

"Fighting for the motherland! Fighting for the people! Thank you for the trust of our leaders and the motherland!"

Upon hearing this, Wu Wanli shouted loudly.

"Fight for the motherland and the people!"

The soldiers of the Seventh Steel Regiment also shouted loudly.

"Good! You are all our best soldiers! The motherland and the people are proud of you!"

"It's very windy and dusty here, this isn't the place to talk, everyone get in the car!"

"Wanli, get in my car and lead the convoy!"

"The specific commendation ceremony, and the promotion and expansion orders for you and the Seventh Steel Regiment, have all been prepared for you in Seoul!"

"Tell me all the details of this battle on the way!"

"Hanqing, you come too!"

Chief Chen nodded heavily, composed himself, and looked at Wu Wanli with burning eyes and high expectations.

Before he finished speaking, Chief Chen naturally reached out and grabbed Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing's arms without giving them a chance to refuse, leading them to turn around and walk towards the military vehicle parked at the front, which was adorned with a bright red Volunteer Corps flag.

Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing exchanged a glance, clearly feeling the leader's firm and powerful arm and his heartfelt care and respect, and a warm current surged in their hearts.

They made no pretentious excuses; after a brief pause to show respect, they were personally led by Commander Chen to the military vehicle.

Soon, the soldiers boarded their respective military vehicles. The engines roared as the vehicles slowly started, turned around, and rolled along the road leading to Seoul.

....................................

When the convoy arrived outside the gates of Seoul, the sea of ​​people, flags, and anticipation below the gates erupted in cheers.

Chief Chen and Liu Hanqing were slightly taken aback by what they saw, clearly not expecting this scene to unfold.

"Commander, I never expected the people of North Korea to welcome us soldiers so warmly."

"Why not call a parking line and walk into the city? That would show more sincerity and respect."

Wu Wanli was the first to react and turned around to offer his suggestion.

"Sir, I second Comrade Wu Wanli's suggestion! Walking better demonstrates the deep bond between our army and the people!"

Liu Hanqing, who was standing to the side, immediately nodded and added in a loud voice.

Chief Chen looked ahead through the car window.

Those excited, flushed faces, those vigorously waving arms, and those countless eyes filled with hope and gratitude, their deep eyes revealing a smile of relief.

"Comrade Wu Wanli is very thoughtful! Let's get off the bus!"

He patted Wu Wanli on the shoulder and said loudly.

Upon hearing this, the driver immediately brought the car to a steady stop outside the city gate.

The car door opened, and Commander Chen, dressed in a neat military uniform, stepped out of the car first with an imposing air.

Immediately afterwards, Wu Wanli's agile figure appeared, and Liu Hanqing followed closely behind as he got off the car.

Subsequently, the core elites of the 7th Steel Regiment also emerged from the following vehicles, forming neat rows with impeccable military bearing.

Commander Chen and Wu Wanli stood side by side, with Liu Hanqing slightly behind, forming a solid supporting triangle, while the soldiers of the Seventh Steel Regiment followed behind them with firm and resounding steps.

In an instant, cheers erupted from the ground and soared into the sky!
Long live the Chinese People's Volunteers!

"A hero from China!"

"Wukaka! Wukaka!"

The crowds on both sides of the road jumped excitedly, waving small flags, headscarves, and even some simple wooden signs with crookedly written welcome slogans.

Women dressed in traditional Korean clothing wiped away tears of joy, while the elderly waved tremblingly in greeting.

Even more striking were the groups of North Korean girls.

They wore patched but relatively brightly colored dresses, their cheeks flushed, their eyes sparkling with undisguised admiration, their gazes fixed on Wu Wanli at the front of the procession.

"Look! That's Wu Wanli, the one who captured the American general! He's even younger and more handsome than I imagined!"

"If I could marry him, I would spend my whole life..."

"Stop dreaming!"

"Have you heard about that girl from the Chinese Cultural Troupe? And I've also heard about the sister of the commander of the Ninth Army in North Korea..."

The girls chattered amongst themselves, their voices not loud, but enough to create a sweet and passionate surge.

Their gazes were so intense they could practically set the air ablaze, as they stared unabashedly at Wu Wanli, discussing possibilities they dared not even dream of.

Just then, the noisy crowd seemed to be separated by an invisible beam of light.

A young girl wearing a colorful flower wreath, holding a large bunch of vibrant wildflowers still glistening with morning dew, squeezed out from the cheering crowd.

Her appearance instantly attracted countless eyes, not only because of the beautiful wreath and flowers, but also because she was the younger sister of Commander Lin Zhengshun.

Yoona lowered her head slightly, her fair cheeks blushing like ripe apples under the flower wreath, her heart pounding so hard it felt like it was about to leap out of her chest.

She dared not look directly into Wu Wanli's deep eyes. Her gaze, briefly meeting his epaulets and chest, carried the unique flutter and evasiveness of a young girl, yet was also filled with incredibly fervent emotions.

"Oppa, do you...do you like flowers?"

Wearing a flower crown, Lim Yoona seemed to have made a great decision, and mustered up her courage to walk up to Wu Wanli, asking in a slightly trembling voice.

This seemingly ordinary greeting, set against her shy tone and expectant eyes, seemed like a bold yet subtle probing.

After all, Yoona not only had flowers in her hand, but also wore them in her hair.

Focused on the future and the grand occasion, Wu Wanli was completely consumed by his sense of responsibility and honor as a soldier and did not immediately grasp the subtle emotions emanating from him.

"Thank you, Comrade Im Yoona!"

"The flowers are beautiful, full of the hope and fragrance of life, I... I like them very much!"

Wu Wanli solemnly accepted the heavy bouquet of flowers, as if receiving the highest respect, and said...

This answer is direct and frank, expressing appreciation and gratitude for the flowers, yet perfectly avoiding the ambiguous thoughts beneath the surface.

The North Korean girls around them let out a low murmur of disappointment and envy, while many North Korean officers mixed in with the group suppressed their laughter.

"Ah Xiba!"

"Is Wu Kaka truly clueless, or is he a master at feigning ignorance?!"

Lin Zhengshun looked at this scene and said, not knowing whether to laugh or cry.

When Yoona saw him accept the flowers, her face lit up with joy at first. But when she heard his completely "unromantic" and sincere reply, her little mouth pouted slightly, showing a hint of coquettish grievance and resentment.

"So...so, do I look good in this flower wreath...and this outfit today?"

She raised her head and asked more directly and shyly, her voice softer but clearer.

She tilted her head slightly to make the wreath look even more vibrant in the sunlight, her gaze fixed intently on Wu Wanli's eyes, relentlessly waiting for the evaluation she truly desired.

This time, Wu Wanli seemed to finally sense something unusual.

The sunlight illuminated her carefully made-up appearance: her jet-black hair was wrapped in a colorful flower wreath, which made her face look like jade, and her well-tailored light blue dress hugged her youthful and beautiful curves.

That deliberately dressed-up beauty and the anticipation of a young girl's first stirrings of love were so touching.

His gaze lingered on her for a moment, a genuine admiration rather than a battlefield stare.

"Beautiful! Absolutely stunning! Yoona looks like...the most radiant wildflower in spring today!"

He nodded vigorously, with the frankness and straightforwardness of a soldier, yet finally a hint of clumsy praise.

This clumsy compliment finally melted into Yoona's heart like honey.

The disappointment in her eyes vanished instantly, replaced by satisfaction and joy. Her cheeks flushed even more, blossoming into a bright and radiant smile.

Lin Yoona didn't say anything more, but glanced at Wu Wanli quickly and shyly, and then, like a light butterfly, she disappeared back into the cheering crowd, eliciting good-natured laughter and whispers.

This little episode was like a piece of candy thrown into a huge ocean of celebration; it dissolved quickly, but left behind a special sweetness.

"Walk for another five minutes, and you'll reach the location of the awards ceremony."

Are you looking forward to it?

"Hurry up, the boss should be here soon."

Chief Chen glanced at his watch and said with a smile.

"Of course I'm looking forward to it."

"After all, it is not an honor for me alone, but an honor bestowed upon the entire Seventh Steel Regiment."

Upon hearing this, Wu Wanli smiled and quickened his pace.

Soon, they arrived at the location of the commendation ceremony.

........................

Blue House Shisa Square
At this moment, the heroes of the 7th Steel Regiment, who had experienced the bloody battle of Incheon, washed away the dust of their journey and lined up in front of the stage.

Representatives of officers and soldiers, as well as representatives of Seoul citizens who rushed to the scene, surrounded the square, filling the air with reverence, joy, and supreme glory.

The conference was presided over by Commander Chen, who first read out the commendation order from the headquarters of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army regarding the brilliant achievements of the Incheon Campaign in a loud voice, and then listed in detail the unprecedented and unparalleled achievements of the 7th Steel Regiment.

"Comrades!"

"This is a victory that has rewritten the course of the war!"

"It not only shattered the enemy's arrogant ambitions, but also wrote a legendary chapter of bravery and fearlessness for our Chinese People's Volunteer Army on the Korean Peninsula battlefield!"

Chief Chen's voice was loud and clear, and the applause from the audience was thunderous and lasted for a long time.

Immediately afterwards, accompanied by Chief Chen, the boss strode to the front of the stage.

The entire stadium fell silent instantly, with only the flags fluttering in the wind.

Meanwhile, Wu Wanli and other key officers of the Seventh Steel Regiment lined up beside the stage, ready to go up when their names were called.

"All comrades present!"

"Today, we gather here to honor a group of heroes who wrote miracles of war with their wisdom, courage, and blood!"

"First and foremost, it's Comrade Wu Wanli!"

"The Battle of Incheon is a model of military strategy!"

"Faced with the elite 1st Marine Division and an unprecedentedly perilous situation, you demonstrated profound strategy and keen insight!"

"Setting up an ambush at Songyue Mountain, using himself as bait, was a flawless plan!"

"Encircled and annihilated in a sea of ​​fire, commanded with unwavering resolve, turning the tide in one fell swoop! Blitzkrieg against the enemy command post, capturing the US lieutenant general!"

"You strategize within the tree fortress and win battles a thousand miles away on the battlefield, displaying awe-inspiring courage and extraordinary wisdom!"

"This is not only an honor for you personally, but also a symbol of the wisdom and courage of all the commanders and soldiers of our Volunteer Army!"

"The headquarters has decided to award Comrade Wu Wanli the Special Merit Medal and the honorary title of 'Special-Class Combat Hero'!"

The boss's voice was steady and powerful, clearly carrying to every corner of the square. His gaze turned to Wu Wanli, his praise and expectations almost overflowing.

Before he finished speaking, applause erupted like a mountain collapsing and a tsunami crashing down.

Wu Wanli walked onto the stage, straightened his back, and solemnly saluted.

Although he tried his best to keep his face calm, the slightly trembling corners of his mouth and the glistening light in his eyes revealed the turmoil and emotion in his heart.

"Comrade Liu Hanqing!"

"As the political commissar, you are both the political leader and Comrade Wan Li's right-hand man."

"Be courageous in offering advice at critical moments, and have an iron will in battle!"

"You provided excellent support and stabilized morale; your contributions are invaluable! You are awarded a First-Class Merit Medal!"

The boss continued.

"Thank you, sir! It's all thanks to Comrade Wanli's skillful command and the comrades' heroic fighting!"

Liu Hanqing walked onto the stage, grasped the boss's hand tightly, his voice choked with emotion, and his gaze involuntarily fell upon Wu Wanli, filled with trust and the camaraderie of fighting side by side.

"Comrade Yu Congrong!"

The boss then shouted.

As Yu Congrong stepped onto the stage, he shouted "Here!" with a thunderous roar, his standard military salute exuding an indomitable and fierce spirit.

"You are the sharpest blade at the forefront of the Songyue Mountain halfway defense line! Facing a formidable enemy with combined infantry and tanks, you will not retreat an inch!"

"Your bravery is like an iron fist smashing down on the enemy! You are awarded a First-Class Merit Medal!"

The boss personally put it on him and said...

"Thank you, sir! Without our commander leading us, even the strongest fist won't make a sound!"

Yu Congrong grinned and shouted in a loud voice.

"Comrade Pinghe!"

"You were once entrusted with a critical mission, and you accurately controlled the rhythm of the defense line, repeatedly thwarting the enemy's offensive."

"Awarded the First-Class Merit Medal!"

The boss then awarded him a medal.

"Thank you for the organization's trust, thank you boss!"

Pinghe walked onto the stage, gave a solemn salute, and then shouted.

"Comrade Lei Suisheng!"

"The air defense positions remained fearless in the face of danger, and the artillery fire relocation was a stroke of genius!"

"Your cannon is not only a powerful weapon for battlefield support, but also a testament to your accurate judgment and decisive tactics! You are awarded the First-Class Merit Medal!"

"These are old revolutionaries who fought their way here from the Long March; it wasn't easy for them!"

The boss looked at Lei Gong with a hint of respect and said...

"Yes! For victory, for the team, let us carry forward the spirit of the Long March!"

Lei Gong excitedly responded after stepping onto the stage.

"Comrade Gao Daxing!"

"You're pretty impressive too. When Wanli launched his lightning attack on the port, you were the one drawing fire outside Incheon!"

"Moreover, your command in the previous Battle of Songyue Mountain was excellent!"

"Awarded the First-Class Merit Medal!"

The boss smiled as he pinned the medal on him and said...

"Thank you, sir!"

Upon hearing this, Gao Daxing immediately saluted and shouted.

The general manager awarded medals to each of the key combat personnel whose names were called.

Every heavy medal carries the memory of blood and fire, and every solemn salute embodies the glory of sacrifice and dedication.

Regardless of the size of their achievements, every recipient of this supreme honor unconsciously turned their gaze toward Wu Wanli.

The young commander who strategized in the tree fortress, led them out of the dead end and created miracles, was the true core of their hearts and the source of their victory!

When eyes meet, silence speaks louder than words.

"Comrades!"

"The Ironclad Seventh Regiment, tempered in the crucible of blood and fire, has become an invincible steel army!"

"In order to adapt to the new war situation and to better leverage the glorious traditions and combat effectiveness of this unit, the headquarters has decided—"

The boss paused for a second halfway through his sentence, observing everyone's reaction.

The entire room held its breath, all eyes fixed intently on the CEO.

"Based on the Seventh Steel Regiment, it was expanded into the Seventh Steel Corps, which has four detachments under its command!"

"Each detachment is further divided into four levels: battalion, company, squad, and platoon!"

"The total staff size will double compared to your previous size, reaching 12,000 people!"

"The specific personnel under its command are as follows: approximately 3,000 people in the detachment, 1,000 people in the battalion, more than 300 people in the company, more than 100 people in the squad, and more than 30 people in the platoon!"

"The Seventh Steel Brigade is directly under the command of the General Headquarters and is not subordinate to any lower-level unit!"

"Comrade Wu Wanli is hereby appointed as the commander of the Seventh Steel Corps!"

"Comrade Liu Hanqing is hereby appointed as the Political Commissar of the Seventh Steel Corps!"

"Comrade Yu Congrong is hereby appointed as the commander of the First Artillery Detachment!"

"Comrade Pinghe is hereby appointed as the captain of the Second Investigation Detachment!"

"Comrade Gao Daxing is hereby appointed as the commander of the Third Assault Detachment!"

"Comrade Lei Suisheng is hereby appointed as the commander of the Fourth Artillery Detachment!"

"At the same time, in order to commemorate the glory of this unit and clarify its historical mission, the headquarters specially awarded the 7th Steel Corps a custom-made flag!"

After the boss finished speaking, he waved to the audience.

At this moment, a tall and imposing volunteer flag bearer, holding a brand-new and enormous battle flag high, strode onto the stage amidst applause.

The flag was unfurled—red with a gold border, and in the center were seven powerful golden characters: "Seventh Steel Brigade"!
Upon seeing these large characters, Wu Wanli suddenly thought of the comparison between the former Training Corps and the Armed Police Corps of later generations.

However, judging from what the boss said, the Seventh Steel Brigade seems to be of a higher standard than the other two.

"The Seventh Steel Brigade!"

"We hope that you will inherit the glorious tradition, carry forward the spirit of Songyue Mountain, and make new contributions and create new glories for the Party, the people, and the motherland!"

"Please receive the flag, Commander-in-Chief and Political Commissar!"

The boss's voice was powerful and resounding.

Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing looked extremely solemn, their chests heaving, their eyes burning with the fire of a mission.

They strode forward and solemnly received the fluttering battle flag, a symbol of trust, honor, and responsibility, from the boss!
When the huge flag was unfurled in the hands of Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing and fluttered in the wind, the entire square erupted in cheers!

"Long live the Seventh Steel Brigade!"

Long live the Chinese People's Volunteers!

"Long live the motherland!"

The slogans of the volunteer soldiers rose higher and higher, converging into a powerful force that shook the heavens and the earth, echoing for a long time on the land where they had won their first victory!

Looking at the flag and the medals on his chest, Yu Congrong couldn't help but shed hot tears.

"Old Yu, aren't you supposed to be a tough guy?"

"Why are you still crying!"

Looking at Yu Congrong, whose eyes were filled with tears, Pinghe wiped away his own tears first and joked.

"Damn it, so what if I cry!"

"From a steel company of just over a hundred men to a steel brigade of over ten thousand men, how difficult it was for us to get to where we are today!"

"It's expanded by almost a hundred times!"

"How many comrades sacrificed their lives! It was so damn hard!"

Yu Congrong felt no shame whatsoever; instead, he burst into tears.

Upon hearing this, Pinghe's joking expression instantly turned serious, and he felt a pang of emotion.

Yes!

It wasn't easy for the 7th Steel Regiment, which had just over a hundred men, to grow into the 7th Steel Brigade, which had over ten thousand men...

From the Battle of Chosin Reservoir in 1950 to the present day in 1951, the force has expanded nearly a hundredfold in such a short period of time!
From the directly subordinate First Task Force to the directly subordinate Volunteer Command!
Moreover, it wasn't an expansion through recruiting new soldiers, but a massive expansion that directly equipped elite veterans with full American weaponry!

In the history of the world, which other company has ever achieved such glory and expansion?
On the stage, Wu Wanli looked at his comrades below, a hint of excitement flashing in his eyes, and his heart was filled with indescribable emotions.

"Kid, you think this is the end of it?"

"Let's go, come with me to Shiji!"

"There's another position they're having a heated discussion about right now!"

“Some people think that such a high position shouldn’t have been given to you, after all, you’re only 19 years old, too young.”

"But now that I see the glorious marks of battle on your bodies, I suddenly wonder what youth means?"

"Let me take you there and settle this once and for all!"

"There are many things to consider in a large-scale retreat strategy, such as who goes first and who stays behind, which troops to leave behind, where to defend, and for how long..."

"I need your advice, little military genius!"

The boss patted Wu Wanli on the shoulder and walked towards Zhisi with a smile.

"Yes!"

Upon hearing this, Wu Wanli quickly agreed and followed, but he was also a little curious.

He has now been promoted to commander of tens of thousands of elite American-equipped troops and oversees four major squadrons.

In this situation, there are still positions to be promoted, and even those require intense discussion?

What exactly is the location?!

(End of this chapter)