When duty calls: Liu Li, a PLA doctor, got a shot to boost immunity before leaving for Wuhan to help battle COVID-19 in Jan 2020. The PLA dispatched more than 4,000 medical staff during the coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan in 2020. Editor: Feng Qingyin/GT Graphic: Xu Zihe/GT

When duty calls: Yang Liwei, China’s first taikonaut, waved after landing on Earth. Taikonauts from PLA Astronaut Corps have made outstanding contributions to China’s exploration of space. Editor: Feng Qingyin/GT Graphic: Xu Zihe/GT

When duty calls: Qi Fabao, a PLA regiment commander, opened his arms to intercept the trespassing Indian soldiers at the Galwan Valley in June, 2020. Qi suffered major injuries while safeguarding China’s territory. Editor: Feng Qingyin/GT Graphic: Xu Zihe/GT

When duty calls: Yang Yixin, one of the first batch of female Chinese mine sweeping peacekeepers in a de-mining operation in Lebanon. China has sent nearly 50,000 service members to UN peacekeeping missions in 30+years. Editor: Feng Qingyin/GT Graphic: Xu Zihe/GT

When duty calls: PLA airborne troops parachuted after a magnitude 8.0 earthquake hit Wenchuan, Sichuan in 2008. 146,000 PLA officers and soldiers joined in the rescue operations. Editor: Feng Qingyin/GT Graphic: Xu Zihe/GT