President Xi Jinping on Wednesday granted medals to 30 Chinese and foreign veterans and civilians who fought for China in the World War II, ahead of the country's grand V-Day celebration. [Special coverage]
Xi, also chairman of the Central Military Commission, said that all the national heroes, including those in the World War II, are the "backbone" of the Chinese nation and their deeds and spirit are the great driving force for the country.
"Any nation with hope cannot be without heroes and any country with promising prospect cannot be without pioneers," he said.
Xi said that the purpose of the medal awarding is to pay tribute to the war heroes and to show that the Chinese people will cherish peace and remember the history.
The ceremony was held at the Great Hall of the People in central Beijing. Other Chinese leaders Li Keqiang, Zhang Dejiang, Yu Zhengsheng, Liu Yunshan, Wang Qishan and Zhang Gaoli were also at present.
Some of the late veterans were represented by their relatives.
