Chapter 47: The last birthday party, the recruit period, is coming to an end!
Chen Ming knew that special forces, compared to regular troops, were considered highly mysterious and elite. Those who could join had to undergo rigorous selection, with the most exceptional individuals from various units competing in a demanding and even intense process to enter the special forces.
This type of unit rarely recruits directly, and while special forces might be appealing, Chen Ming felt it wasn’t the right consideration for him. After a brief thought, he smiled and told the platoon leader, “Sergeant, I haven’t decided yet. I’ll see which company is assigned first. Of course, if the special forces are recruiting, I’ll try it.”
The platoon leader nodded in satisfaction, acknowledging that Chen Ming’s decision-making was something he respected. He pondered whether Chen Ming, his soldier, could make it into the special forces, recognizing the young man’s strength compared to his earlier years.
After some casual conversation, the platoon leader dismissed them. Back in the dormitory, not long after, they were led by the squad leader to have breakfast.
Today, there was no assignment for them to organize internal affairs. Instead, they had the freedom to engage in various activities. The company commander and platoon leader didn’t organize any entertainment, making it seem like a laid-back weekend.
However, the relaxation was only on the surface. He Dong practiced tactical training movements on the dormitory’s open ground, indifferent to the floor’s hardness. Yu Jun sat on a small stool, focused on memorizing regulations. He Xue was busy disassembling and assembling his gun, aiming for speed and precision.
The military skill assessment was crucial for the recruits, resembling the importance of a college entrance exam for students. With his superior physical fitness, Chen Ming considered the assessment less challenging. He aimed to perform every movement flawlessly and minimize errors during the evaluation.
As the day passed with everyone’s self-training, the evening brought them to the event building. The squad leader led them to the third-floor karaoke room, where many recruits had gathered. They formed a circle, and the company commander and platoon leaders stood in the center.
Various snacks were available in the circle, and a large cake was behind the company commander. It was a monthly tradition to celebrate the birthdays of those born that month.
In their group, He Dong picked up a birthday hat and jokingly said, “Who in our class has a birthday this month? I’ll personally crown them!” However, as they looked at each other, it became clear none of them celebrated their birthdays this month.
Seeing this, He Dong put on the hat himself, saying, “I’ll celebrate in advance, and it’s also the last time…” His voice trailed off, and a solemn silence settled among the group.
This marked the third birthday celebration for the recruits in their three-month training.
In other words, as this birthday party concluded, the day of their separation was drawing near. In just three months, if they were outside, they might have only just started to get acquainted. However, inside the barracks, where there was no flashy entertainment, the close living, training, and shared experiences led to quick bonding.
Now, as they were about to part ways and be assigned to different units, it’s unlikely they’ll see each other again unless they stay in touch after retiring. Observing the group, Chen Ming tried to lighten the mood, saying, “Let’s be happy. It’s someone else’s birthday. No need to look gloomy. We’re not parting ways immediately.”
He Xue nodded and added, “Exactly. Let’s eat and drink and maybe be assigned together.”
As others from different classes arrived, the karaoke room was filled. The company commander raised the microphone, and the birthday celebration began. With the cake candles lit, they sing “Happy Birthday,” and recruited with birthday hats blow out the candles.
He Dong shamelessly joined in, and he continued despite Chen Ming’s attempts to stop him. As the candles were extinguished, the lights came back on amidst applause. The company commander distributed the cake, and everyone started tuning into their favorite songs, singing with the microphone.
The joyous time at the birthday party ended with various songs. At 9 PM, led by the squad leader, they left the entertainment room, and as Chen Ming looked back at the military activity building, he reflected on the past three months and the camaraderie shared with his comrades.
They chat about the upcoming assessment in the dormitory, lying on their beds. He Dong expressed his nervousness due to the difficulty of certain movements. Chen Ming reassured him, saying, “Don’t worry. The sooner the assessment is over, the sooner we’re done. I’m already looking forward to the next company, not sure where I’ll be assigned.”
While He Dong was worried, Yu Jun was more hopeful. After the assessment, there would be an awarding ceremony, and their uniform badges would no longer be bare. It’s a step closer to leaving behind the title of recruit.
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