Soldiers fighting floods, then and now

In the devastating floods during the summer of 1998, Chinese People's Liberation Army soldiers and armed police officers braved hardships and difficulties to protect people's lives and property. This year, the incessant torrential rains have caused widespread flooding along the Yangtze River basin. Now, as then, soldiers are devoting themselves in the heroic fight against the floods and showing the same bravery. Here are some photos capturing their heroic moments, both past and present.