Chapter 764
Yu Dawei: The Shanxi Miracle! Chang Ruiyuan Chats About Life in Changzhi!
Taiyuan, the inner residence of the Second World War Zone Commander's Headquarters.
As night deepened, the daytime hustle and bustle and the roar of machinery were shut out by the numerous guard posts.
Inside this mansion, which symbolizes the highest power in Shanxi, the lights were on full display.
Chang Ruiyuan shed the enthusiastic demeanor he had displayed during the daytime inspection and leaned back in his chair, looking slightly tired.
Opposite him, Zhu Peiji, the chief of the personal guard, and Yu Dawei, the director of the Ordnance Department, sat upright.
On the table were several portions of late-night snacks that had just been delivered and a thick stack of documents.
A subtle sense of solemnity permeated the air.
"David."
Chang Ruiyuan picked up his teacup, gently blew away the foam, and broke the silence: "I've been watching all day. You're an expert from the Ordnance Department, and also a seasoned professional who has studied abroad."
"What is the true state of Shanxi's industrial base? Don't give me empty platitudes, I want the truth."
Yu Dawei pushed up his gold-rimmed glasses, his expression grave.
In his hand, he tightly clutched a "Summary Table of Shanxi's Industrial Capacity and Infrastructure Construction" submitted by Sun Weimou, General Manager of Shanxi Construction Group.
This report.
He has watched it three times, and each time it makes him tremble with fear and filled with emotion.
"Chairman."
Yu Dawei took a deep breath, opened the report, and said in a steady and powerful voice: "If I had to describe it in two words, it would be 'miracle'."
He pointed to the first line of data on the report: "First is infrastructure. At present, 1,600 kilometers of standard-gauge railways have been repaired or newly built throughout Shanxi, and only 300 kilometers of narrow-gauge railways remain, all of which have achieved interconnection."
The road network is an astonishing 5,000 kilometers long, most of which are gravel or asphalt roads that can accommodate heavy trucks.
Even in the majestic Taihang Mountains, there are a large number of paved roads.
Clearly, Shanxi has put a lot of effort into this.
"This means that the efficiency of resource allocation and troop deployment within Shanxi is at least five times that of the rear."
Chang Ruiyuan was slightly moved. He knew all too well what five times the delivery efficiency meant in the military.
"Let's talk about core production capacity."
Yu Dawei turned a page and ran his finger over several key figures: "After expansion, the annual output of ordinary steel products at Taiyuan Iron and Steel Plant has exceeded 1.3 million tons."
Special steel – namely high-strength alloy steel used in the manufacture of cannons and armor – is expected to have an annual output of up to 50,000 tons.
This alone exceeds the combined total of the Hanyang Ironworks and the major steel mills in the rear.
In particular, the production of special steel is more than thirty times that of the rear areas.
"In addition, there is cement, which is the most crucial material for building defensive fortifications, with an annual production of 800,000 tons."
"With the help of our allies, the refining technology for non-ferrous metals, such as copper, aluminum, and zinc, has reached the level of pre-war Europe."
Yu Dawei raised his head and looked intently at Chang Ruiyuan: "Chairman, Shanxi truly deserves the title of 'Model Industrial Province'."
According to Jinggong's (Zhang Jingjiang's) current development plan, if this pace of development can be maintained for three to five years...
"Taiyuan, the future Dragon City, is very likely to become the first city in China to achieve 'electricity and running water for every household'."
"The living standards of its people will be directly comparable to those of industrialized cities in the West!"
Zhu Peiji, who was listening nearby, was dumbfounded and couldn't help but interject, "Isn't this a bit too exaggerated?"
"That's the scariest thing I'm going to say."
Yu Dawei glanced approvingly at Zhu Peiji and explained, "During my inspection, I discovered that Shanxi's resource waste rate is extremely low, less than one percent."
This is likely due to their extreme emphasis on infrastructure.
After the road was opened.
Coal gangue and low-grade ore, which were previously discarded, can now be transported out and utilized; even steelmaking waste is being used to burn cement.
"This kind of systematic efficiency is what truly makes it unattainable for others."
Chang Ruiyuan listened to the analysis of this German-trained ballistics PhD and ordnance expert.
The previously vague concept in my mind finally became clear, but it also became heavier.
original.
The gap has widened to this extent.
He put down his teacup, remained silent for a moment, and then suddenly asked, "Dawei, since the production capacity is so high, let me ask you, if we integrate all the current domestic military production capacity, including Shanxi, how many decent troops can we organize in six months?"
This is a very real and urgent problem.
Yu Dawei was taken aback for a moment, and subconsciously asked, "Chairman, what standard are you referring to?"
Chang Ruiyuan looked puzzled.
Yu Dawei then explained: "It is in accordance with the 'Adjustment Division' plan previously issued by Minister Chen Cixiu of the Ministry of Military Affairs in the Reorganization Department?"
Or should we follow the 'Type A and Type B combat force' reorganization plan implemented by the North China Joint Command?
"Minister Chen's plan focuses on German-style light infantry, emphasizing German-style infantry tactics centered on machine guns."
The North China plan, on the other hand, focuses on a hybrid approach from the US and the Soviet Union, emphasizing heavy firepower support and combined arms operations.
The production capacity requirements for these two are completely different.
As soon as those words were spoken...
The temperature in the room seemed to drop to freezing point instantly.
Chang Ruiyuan's face visibly darkened, and the veins on the back of his hand gripping the armrest bulged.
"Adjustment Division" and "Class A Brigade" represent two completely different command systems, logistical standards, and even tactical philosophies.
The former represents the old foundation of the Central Army; the latter represents a new approach by the War Commander.
In the same country, under the same leader, there are two incompatible sets of military building standards.
"Bastard!"
Chang Ruiyuan closed his eyes and squeezed out a sigh of regret from deep in his throat: "The nation is in such dire straits. Our great country, with millions of troops, hasn't even finalized a unified reorganization plan? I remember Yunfei has been the head of the reorganization department for more than half a year now."
"The chief consultant is extremely busy, and his work in the organization department is basically limited to providing guidance remotely; he's mostly just a figurehead."
Zhu Peiji took a deep breath and continued, "When the document was issued previously requesting the Eighth War Zone to reorganize, it didn't go smoothly... Commander Hu was quite resistant to this matter."
Chang Ruiyuan sighed and emphasized, "This is not just a technical issue; it's a division!"
It is another manifestation of warlordism in a modern army!
If this problem is not solved, even if the Japanese are defeated in the future, this army will never be able to unite as one.
After a long while, Chang Ruiyuan suddenly opened his eyes, a resolute glint in them: "This can't go on any longer."
"How can the army of one country be subject to two systems?"
"David, organize this data."
"This matter must be discussed as a core issue at the Kaifeng Conference, and it is imperative to reach a consensus on standards!"
"Yes!"
Yu Dawei nodded emphatically, as he was well aware of the implications.
At this moment, Zhu Peiji, who had been observing Chang Ruiyuan's expression, cautiously asked, "Chairman, besides the military reorganization, what should be the main theme of this Kaifeng Conference?"
"Should we prepare a detailed draft?"
Chang Ruiyuan did not answer immediately.
He stood up, walked to the window in the study, and opened it.
Outside the window was the heavily guarded courtyard of the Second World War Zone Command.
Further away are the lights of Taiyuan City, which still flicker occasionally even in the dead of night.
After a long silence, a long sigh echoed in the quiet room.
"Prepare?"
Chang Ruiyuan turned around, put his hands behind his back, and gave a self-deprecating bitter smile: "Peiji, aren't you afraid of making fun of me?"
"In fact, I never really prepared any itinerary for the Kaifeng Conference."
"This trip is more about..."
Chang Ruiyuan paused, his voice low and desolate: "I feel more like I fled in panic from that quagmire of mountain city."
"I've been driven to the point of having nowhere to breathe by those so-called 'insiders,' those scoundrels who only know how to fight amongst themselves and make money."
Zhu Peiji and Yu Dawei were shocked and quickly lowered their heads, not daring to look directly at the old man's dejection.
"but."
Chang Ruiyuan's tone suddenly changed, the dejection in his eyes disappeared, replaced by a fighting spirit that had been aroused.
He pointed to the ground beneath his feet, then to the direction of the out-of-seey arsenal in the distance.
"This trip to Shanxi was worthwhile. On the contrary, I feel more at ease and confident."
"I want all the warlords and politicians in the world to see what a real national army is, and what true unified command is!"
"David, go prepare the data." "Pegi, go contact Fang Ligong and finalize the meeting agenda."
Zhu Peiji nodded seriously: "Yes."
-
When leaving Taiyuan.
Chang Ruiyuan did not fly directly to Kaifeng, but instead flew straight to Changzhi.
Changzhi.
It served as the forward command post of the Second World War zone for a period of time.
It is also the core of southeastern Shanxi and one of the major bases of North China.
Two very important people also live here.
Chu Yunfei's wife, Song Wenying, and his three-and-a-half-year-old son, Chu Guanghua.
Shanxi.
Changzhi, afternoon.
The plane landed at the suburban airport.
There was no grand honor guard here, only a few seemingly ordinary black cars that were already waiting on the side.
Chang Ruiyuan changed into casual clothes, which he specifically requested.
This trip will not concern us with national affairs, but will only involve casual conversation.
The Chu Mansion is located in a quiet alley in the south of the city.
This place was originally a villa belonging to a Shanxi merchant. With its blue bricks and gray tiles, it was simple and grand, and the walls were covered with ivy, exuding a sense of peaceful tranquility.
After some renovations, it became the Chu Mansion.
The convoy came to a stop.
Chang Ruiyuan got out of the car, carrying a pair of tiger-head shoes and several boxes of exquisite southern pastries that he had specially asked his attendants to buy when he inspected Taiyuan.
"Uncle!"
Having already been notified, Song Wenying came out to greet them, leading a beautifully sculpted little boy.
She wore an elegant moon-white cheongsam, and her hair was styled in a gentle bun.
Although she had lived on this Loess Plateau for several years, the refined temperament of a lady from the Song family in Jiangnan had not diminished in the slightest. Instead, she had gained the resilience and composure of a military family member.
"Oh, Wenying."
Chang Ruiyuan quickened his pace, and the stern mask that he always wore in front of others instantly melted away, revealing the kind and gentle smile unique to an elder.
He looked Song Wenying up and down, a hint of pity flashing in his eyes: "You've lost weight and gotten a bit darker."
“The wind and sand are strong in the north, and the soil is hard. You grew up in the south, and you have suffered here with Yunfei.”
"Uncle, you flatter me. It's not hard for me."
Song Wenying smiled and took Chang Ruiyuan's arm in a natural and intimate gesture: "Yunfei is risking his life for the country on the front line, what is my little bit of suffering?"
Besides, Shanxi is developing well now, people are living fulfilling lives, and the people are living in peace and contentment. I also have a temporary position at a school, and I teach in my spare time, which makes me feel at ease.
As she spoke, she gently nudged the somewhat timid little boy beside her: "Guanghua, quickly greet him, this is your great-grandfather."
Chu Guanghua, four years old.
Wearing a miniature version of a Boy Scout uniform, with a chubby face and big, dark eyes, he looked just like Chu Yunfei.
He wasn't shy at all. Upon hearing his mother's words, he immediately straightened his little back, stood at attention and saluted in a proper manner, and called out in his childish voice, "Hello, Great-Grandpa!"
"I am Chu Guanghua!"
"Hahaha!"
"Good! Good lad!"
Chang Ruiyuan was overjoyed. He shoved the tiger-head shoes into Zhu Peiji's hands behind him and then bent down to pick up Chu Guanghua.
"Wow, that's heavy!"
"It's a strong little tiger!"
Chang Ruiyuan carried the child into the living room, teasing him as he said, "Look at those eyebrows and eyes, that heroic spirit, he's practically a carbon copy of Yunfei! When he grows up, he'll definitely be a great commander!"
After everyone took their seats, the orderly served them jujube tea, a specialty of Shanxi.
Chang Ruiyuan placed Chu Guanghua on his lap, took out a pen from his pocket, and put it into the child's small hand: "Take this, it's a gift from your great-grandfather."
"When you grow up, you must study hard and become a true Chinese citizen. Whether you wield a gun or a pen, you must make your father proud."
Then, he turned to look at Song Wenying, his tone becoming casual as if they were old friends, yet with a hint of probing.
"Wenying, Madam is still visiting the United States and hasn't returned yet."
“A few days ago, he sent a telegram, specifically instructing me that now that I have come to the north, I must come and see you and your daughter no matter what.”
Chang Ruiyuan took a sip of tea and said slowly, "Madam also asked about Guanghua's education."
"This child is four years old; it's time to start his education."
"Although Changzhi is a stable place, it is located in Shanxi and its educational conditions are not as good as those in the rear."
The rear area is a gathering of nationally renowned scholars. The lady's idea is, should we send Guanghua to Chongqing or Chengdu?
There are several excellent church schools there, with the best teachers, and the living conditions are much better taken care of.
The room was quiet for a moment.
In ancient times, this was called a "hostage".
Nowadays, this is called "cultivation".
Song Wenying was an exceptionally intelligent woman. Born into the Song family, how could she not understand the meaning behind those words?
She poured tea for Chang Ruiyuan, her smile unchanged, her tone gentle yet firm: "Thank you for your kindness, Aunt and Uncle."
"Actually, I've discussed this issue with Yunfei as well."
"Oh? What did Yunfei say?"
Chang Ruiyuan asked calmly.
"Yunfei said, 'A tiger father cannot raise a dog son, and a soldier's son cannot be too spoiled.'"
Song Wenying gently held her son's small hand, her eyes clear: "He said that China is now a battlefield everywhere."
“Guanghua was born in a chaotic world, so he should grow up in the storm. If we send him to be raised in a greenhouse, even though he is the chief advisor, he is still just an ordinary soldier and should not be given special treatment.”
"and"
Song Wenying glanced at Chang Ruiyuan and smiled meaningfully, "Yunfei also said that as long as you, Uncle, are in charge and support him from the front, he will have confidence in the front."
My daughter and I are in Changzhi, close to him. When he comes home tired from fighting, he can have a hot meal waiting for him, and that puts his mind at ease.
Upon hearing this, Chang Ruiyuan gave his niece a deep look.
A moment later, he threw his head back and laughed, slapping his thigh: "Good! Well said!"
"Yunfei is so lucky to have a virtuous wife like you!"
"With parents like Guanghua, he is destined for great things!"
“Since you two have your own ideas, then I, as an elder, will not force you.”
"Let him stay in Shanxi and get back to normal life!"
The last lingering gloom in Chang Ruiyuan's heart dissipated.
Song Wenying's attitude represented Chu Yunfei's attitude.
I have a clear conscience because I believe that you, as a leader, can tolerate me.
This confidence, on the contrary, made Chang Ruiyuan appreciate it even more.
Chu Yunfei knew exactly how to handle a donkey.
"Alright, it's getting late, and military affairs are busy, so I shouldn't stay any longer."
Chang Ruiyuan glanced at the wall clock, reluctantly put Chu Guanghua down, and stood up: "I still have to rush to Kaifeng; there's a lot of important business waiting for me there."
"Wenying, no need to see me off."
As Chang Ruiyuan reached the door, he suddenly stopped, turned around, and without looking at Zhu Peiji and the others, whispered to Song Wenying, "If you need anything in the future, just send a telegram to the Attendant's Office."
Tell Yunfei that he doesn't need to worry about things at home.
"When he arrives in Kaifeng, I will give him my full support."
"Take care, Uncle." Song Wenying slightly bent her knees and watched the convoy disappear into the distance.
Only after the black sedan disappeared at the alley entrance did Song Wenying finally let out a long sigh of relief.
She looked down at her son, who was scribbling with a pen, and her eyes became incredibly determined.
In this chaotic world, this marriage alliance is both a talisman and a shackle.
But as long as the gun in your hand is strong enough.
This shackle can never hold back this fierce tiger from Shanxi. (End of Chapter)