Shi and other senior Navy officers expressed their sincere sympathy and consideration to the parents of Wang Wei.

"You have brought up a good son," said the Navy Commander, adding that Wang Wei was loyal to the Party, to the motherland and the people.

In the struggle safeguarding the country's sovereignty and national dignity, Wang Wei was brave and determined to successfully carry out his mission. What he has done embodied his sublime patriotism and heroic spirit.

Wang Wei loved the navy air cause. He studied diligently, observed training strictly and became an outstanding pilot.

Wang loved life and got on well with his colleagues. He was virtuous and was always ready to help others.

Shi said that all navy officers and soldiers were worried about Wang Wei ever since he parachuted from his fighter jet and went missing.

He told Wang's parents that President Jiang Zemin was very concerned about Wang. Following important orders from the president, the Navy spared no efforts to search for Wang Wei at all costs with help from other governmental departments, local governments and civilians.

However Wang's whereabouts is still unknown. Judging by the circumstances, there is no possibility of him returning alive.

"We are all in deep sorrow," said Shi, "Wang Wei devoted his life to the interests of the country and the nation. He is not only the pride of his family but the pride of all Navy officers and soldiers."

Wang Ming and Wang Yueqin, the father and mother of Wang Wei, expressed their gratitude towards the Navy and its chief for the great efforts they have made to search for their son.

They said that it was the people's army that trained Wang Wei to be useful for the country. "He was our son, and son of the Party and the people, too."

(People's Daily 04/15/2001)