Born in a village in Xinxiang, Henan Province, Zhang joined the PLA and served in the Beijing Garrison in 1978. During his six years in the army, he was awarded the " third-class merits " at one time and became a CPC member. After leaving the army, he decided to become a plumber. " As a veteran, the biggest advantage is that I am not afraid of hardship and fatigue, so I think it is a good opportunity to serve the society," Zhang said. He said this new job gave him the feeling of being a soldier again. [Photo by Dong Ning/China.org.cn]