Photo: PLA Southern Theater Command
To celebrate the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland and the People's Liberation Army (PLA) stationing in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Garrison of the PLA held an open day event from Saturday to Sunday, inviting Hong Kong residents to visit the barracks in Ngong Shuen Chau, Shek Kong, and San Wai, the Xinhua News Agency reported.
At Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks, a grand flag-raising ceremony was first held at around 10 am on Saturday. As the national anthem played, the guard of honor marched in precise steps. Residents and garrison personnel stood at attention, saluted the national flag and sang the anthem.
Troops performed military drills including bayonet exercises and hunter combat training, showcasing their combat capabilities. In the equipment exhibition area, residents experienced handling firearms, observed military vehicles, boarded naval vessels, and learned rope-tying techniques and conducted simulated shooting under the soldiers' guidance, according to Xinhua.
A helicopter flight demonstration drew large crowds at the Shek Kong Barracks, with pilots expertly performing stunts such as sharp dives and sudden climbs. Still buzzing with excitement after the show, many residents visited the air force display area to take photos in front of the helicopter.
Numerous local families visited the exhibition center to learn about the history and achievements of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the nation, and the military.
During the open day, the garrison also staged themed performances showcasing the troops’ loyalty to their mission and the deep bond between soldiers and Hong Kong residents.
This marks the 35th open day held by the garrison, which has received 930,000 visits over the past 28 years. In recent years, the garrison has also organized activities such as summer camps and patriotic education programs, and has taken part in tree planting, elderly care, and childcare initiatives, according to Xinhua.
