Episode 7 recap: Huang Jiguang and the Martyrs Blocking the Gun with Their Bodies
In Episode 7, during a life-and-death battle, Hu Man Cang was anxious and hurriedly led his injured comrades back to the safety of Tunnel No. 1. Both he and Duan Xian Feng were filled with determination, hoping to find the bugler, La Ba, during the counterattack, so he could once again sound the charge.
Unfortunately, La Ba had already fallen into enemy hands and endured unimaginable torture. Even in his final moments, he never revealed a single piece of information about his unit. His loyalty and resilience were truly moving.
General Wang Jin Shan urgently contacted Qin Ji Wei to convey a crucial decision from higher-ups: to support the vital night battle, three artillery battalions, one heavy artillery battalion, and a powerful Katyusha rocket battalion would be sent as reinforcements.
Wang understood the heavy burden on the 15th Army and emphasized that the entire corps trusted and expected much from them. He hoped Qin Ji Wei could lead the soldiers to embody the spirit of the Volunteer Army, fearlessly advancing against formidable foes.
However, reality was far harsher than anticipated. The 15th Army faced unprecedented challenges. After the counterattack, they would be severely depleted in manpower, making every step incredibly difficult.
Advisors suggested that Qin Ji Wei report the situation honestly to their superiors, but he firmly replied that every unit was holding on. In critical moments, it was about who could grit their teeth and endure until the end. The Volunteer Army relied on this unyielding spirit.
The next morning, Duan Xian Feng gathered all the soldiers to prepare for the counterattack. However, Fan Yuan Bao, due to carelessness, lost several grenades, causing concern for the squad leader. Seeing this, Duan Xian Feng immediately took precautions, insisting that each squad leader personally check their men's equipment to ensure everything was in order. He also noticed Shuang Xi's lax attitude and lack of discipline, which would inevitably lead to major problems.
After careful consideration, Duan Xian Feng and Hu Man Cang decided to pair Fan Yuan Bao with Shuang Xi in a reconnaissance team. This was both a way to impose discipline on Shuang Xi and an opportunity for him to learn obedience and cooperation in real combat.
Initially, Shuang Xi was reluctant to partner with anyone, but under Duan Xian Feng's stern warning, he had no choice but to accept the arrangement. Duan Xian Feng earnestly reminded the two: as the team leader, it was not only their duty to protect themselves but also to be responsible for the safety of their teammates—an immense responsibility.
As night fell, the battle horn finally sounded. A barrage of artillery fired simultaneously, creating a dazzling display of firepower that caught the enemy off guard. The 45th Division of the Volunteer Army launched a fierce counterattack against the enemy positions on Heights 597.9 and the northern ridge of Heights 537.7, with the cover of artillery fire.
In the midst of the intense fighting, at the command post of the 8th U.S. Army, Major General Jenkins urgently redeployed troops in an attempt to turn the tide. Despite the Volunteer Army having captured several strongholds, the Zero Position remained a tough nut to crack. Qin Ji Wei understood the importance of this battle and issued a strict order: the Zero Position must be taken; otherwise, it would affect the overall situation and dishonor the comrades who had already sacrificed their lives.
Time was of the essence, with only half an hour left until dawn. Duan Xian Feng observed the battlefield through binoculars and realized that a simple charge would not be effective. At a crucial moment, Huang Ji Guang, a communications soldier from the 2nd Battalion of the 45th Division, stepped forward. He led several soldiers, braving a hail of bullets, throwing grenades while advancing towards the enemy’s stronghold. Ultimately, Huang Ji Guang used his body as a shield against the enemy's furious gunfire, buying precious time for his comrades. At just 21 years old, he embodied what it truly meant to be a hero.
After two days of continuous fierce fighting, the Volunteer Army not only dealt a heavy blow to the arrogance of the U.S. forces but also completely annihilated five companies from the 32nd and 17th Regiments. The Battle of Shangganling thus entered a new phase—transitioning from resisting enemy attacks to preparing for trench warfare and counterattacks. Duan Xian Feng felt an immense weight on his heart; Huang Ji Guang’s sacrifice was like a boulder pressing down on him.
Although Hu Man Cang also felt deep sorrow, he understood that war is cruel. Only by becoming stronger could they continue to move forward.
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