On the early morning of August 1, the anniversary of the founding of the Chinese army, the soldiers who guard China's national flag looked out over Beijing from the 28th floor of the Beijing International Hotel.

The soldiers were present as part of the activities held in China to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the PLA(People's Liberation Army).

These special soldiers raise and lower China's national flag every day at Tian'anmen Square in the center of Beijing. To celebrate the anniversary, some of their parents were invited to watch how the national flag was raised in their hands.

On the same day, an exhibition of art works by PLA soldiers opened in Shanghai. More than 170 pieces were displayed, reflecting the history of the PLA, soldiers' lives and PLA soldiers' achievements in fine art.

In the evening, artistic performances were held in Beijing Guo'an Theater to celebrate the PLA's 77th anniversary.

China's Ministry of National Defense also gave a grand reception the previous day in the Great Hall of the People to mark the anniversary.