Soldiers Assault: Starting from the 7th Steel Company

Chapter 228 The Predecessor of the Combined Arms Brigade
Even the most dull-witted person could understand the deeper meaning behind Sun Tongfei's words—he was clearly going to promote Chen Jiang.

In an instant, countless thoughts flashed through Chen Jiang's mind, spinning endlessly like a revolving lantern.

Could it be that he's going to take over as section chief? What will become of the current section chief then?
Whether it was a lateral transfer or a promotion, he dared not think any further, only feeling his heart involuntarily quicken.

"So? What are your thoughts?" Sun Tongfei asked with a smile, casually tidying up the documents in his hand and placing them aside. "It's just a casual chat, don't be so formal."

It may sound easy, but when it comes to matters of great importance such as one's future, who can truly remain indifferent?
Chen Jiang took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down.

He knew that since Sun Tongfei had personally called him to his office for a talk, it meant that the matter had already been discussed at the meeting and was basically settled.

This is standard practice for personnel transfers, and Chen Jiang, having worked in this industry for many years, is well aware of it.

"Commander, I have no objections and will resolutely obey the organization's arrangements!" Chen Jiang straightened his back and spoke with a firm and powerful voice.

"Haha, alright, alright." Sun Tongfei had expected Chen Jiang to answer like this, and a hint of appreciation flashed in his eyes.

Looking at the young man in front of him, he couldn't help but feel a sense of emotion.

Chen Jiang is only a few years old, yet he has already reached this position. Sun Tongfei asked himself honestly, his promotion speed was far from that fast.

“The higher-ups have decided to form a brand new combat unit and are considering appointing you as their deputy!” Sun Tongfei paused for a moment. “This deputy position is roughly equivalent to a full regimental commander.”

"A deputy commander at the regimental level?" Chen Jiang was momentarily stunned, his mind racing. Thinking about it, only a brigade-level combat unit would have such a position; otherwise, it wouldn't make sense.

He clearly remembers that the current military was still mainly composed of divisions and regiments, with a division having three regiments and a regiment having three battalions. There was almost no "brigade" level.

The establishment of the first combined arms brigade is still several years away according to historical timelines. Could this current informationized mechanized infantry brigade be a pilot unit?
“That’s right.” Sun Tongfei seemed to see through his thoughts, his tone becoming serious. “You can also think of it as a special unit. There’s no precedent for this in our army’s history. We’re feeling our way across the river, building and exploring as we go.” He stood up, walked to the window, looked at the soldiers training on the field outside, and continued, “This is a major decision made by our superiors after careful consideration. In the current international situation, all the world’s military powers are vigorously promoting military reforms, and we must keep pace with the times and not fall behind.”

"Have the brigade commander and the Z Committee members been selected?" Chen Jiang couldn't help but ask.

Sun Tongfei turned around and smiled meaningfully: "This cannot be revealed at the moment. An official document will be issued later, and everything will be subject to the document."

He glanced at his watch. "Let's stop here for today. Go back and prepare for the handover, but don't make a fuss about it yet."

"Yes, sir!" Chen Jiang stood at attention and saluted, but his heart was already churning with emotions.

Back in the office, Zhong Yixue had already left; only Zhong Yiming was still there, flipping through military magazines on his bookshelf.

Upon seeing Chen Jiang return, he immediately turned around and asked with a sly look, "Well, Director Chen, has the destination been decided yet?"

Chen Jiang, feigning composure, tidied the documents on the table: "I don't know what you're talking about, it's just a normal work report. What, what are you thinking about again?" He glanced at his watch and changed the subject: "Let's go, it's lunchtime, I'll treat you to stir-fry!"

The military region's canteen is renowned for its "small kitchen," where the chefs are all exceptionally skilled, capable of preparing dishes from all over the country. Chen Jiang ordered a sauerkraut fish, a braised pork belly with preserved mustard greens, two or three seasonal vegetables, and a few bottles of chilled beer. Soon, the fragrant dishes filled the small table.

Chen Jiang originally wanted to invite Zhong Yixue along, but then changed his mind and gave up.

It's best to be mindful of the potential impact during this sensitive period.

Besides, if Zhong Yixue were present, there would be some things he and Zhong Yiming couldn't say.

Chen Jiang and Zhong Yiming were both heavy drinkers; they downed several bottles of beer without batting an eye. After a couple of ice-cold beers, they naturally started talking non-stop.

Zhong Yiming picked up a piece of braised pork belly with alternating layers of fat and lean meat, and lowered his voice, saying, "You're keeping this a secret from me? The top leader is speaking to me personally, it can't be a small matter, can it? Tell me quickly, what good news is it?"

Chen Jiang took a sip of his drink, feeling the cool liquid slide down his throat, bringing a touch of clarity. He knew this couldn't be kept secret, nor was there any need to hide it from this well-connected guy in front of him. However, organizational discipline dictated that many details couldn't be revealed prematurely.

"I guess you could say it's a step forward," Chen Jiang said carefully, "I'm going to a new unit and taking on some new tasks."

"A new unit?" Zhong Yiming's eyes lit up. "Isn't this the one where you're taking over from the old director? I knew it! You've been doing a fantastic job for the past year or so, the higher-ups must have noticed! You're definitely going to be given an important position!"

Chen Jiang smiled noncommittally and picked up a slice of sauerkraut fish. The fish was tender and the flavorful tangy and spicy sauce was appetizing, but his mind wasn't on the food at all. "It's somewhat related. Let's wait for the official documents; it's really not appropriate to say more now."

“I understand, it’s about discipline.” Zhong Yiming nodded knowingly, raised his glass and said, “No matter where you go, you’re being given an important position! Congratulations—” He deliberately dragged out the words, with a hint of probing and teasing: “Deputy Brigade Commander Chen?”

Chen Jiang paused in his chopsticks, looked up at him, and asked, "Where did you hear that from?"

Zhong Yiming chuckled smugly and leaned closer: "I have my own connections. Just because you don't tell me doesn't mean I'm not allowed to ask around!" He winked at Chen Jiang, giving him a knowing look.

Chen Jiang's heart skipped a beat, but he remained outwardly calm: "Alright, alright, don't gossip outside. Let's drink, the food's getting cold." He tried to change the subject, but inwardly he thought that Zhong Yiming's information network was indeed excellent; it hadn't even been officially announced yet, and he had already heard the rumors.

"I heard this new unit is just starting out, and there's a lot to do, right?" Zhong Yiming said seriously, his joking expression turning serious. "If there are any vacancies, remember to get me transferred too. I feel more at ease working under you."

Chen Jiang felt a warmth in his heart. He knew that Zhong Yiming's words were not just polite talk, but sincere.

Chen Jiang raised his glass and clinked it with his, saying sincerely, "Thanks, brother! Your words are enough. As for the specifics of how to organize it, the leader hasn't explained it to me in detail; it's still a secret."

The meal lasted for more than an hour. The two chatted about interesting things that happened in the army and exchanged some "insider information".

After dinner, Chen Jiang didn't go straight back to his office. Instead, he strolled around the small playground behind the government building. The cool evening breeze dispelled the effects of the alcohol and made his thoughts clearer.

Deputy brigade commander, colonel.

Although he didn't stay in the headquarters as a section chief, he eventually went to the combat troops, which fulfilled his long-held wish.

The only concern is the deputy position, which has two higher-ranking officers above it, the brigade commander and the political commissar. I don't know if it's a good thing.

Where did the soldiers and officers under my command come from? Equipment, training, syllabus... countless questions flooded my mind instantly.

He knew that this was both a tremendous opportunity and a severe test. If he succeeded, his future would be limitless; if he messed up, it would be difficult to recover.

Moreover, this unit was a pilot project on which the higher authorities placed high hopes; it could only succeed and could not afford to fail.

He recalled Sun Tongfei's words, "crossing the river by feeling the stones." This river, whether deep or shallow, with hidden currents, must be explored step by step by himself.

As he pondered this, his pace quickened, as if he couldn't wait to face the challenge.

A few days later, the official document was issued:

An information-based mechanized infantry brigade was formed, designated as Brigade C.

The brigade commander was Long Kaifeng, Chen Jiang's former superior, and the political commissar, Li Haiguang, was transferred from another unit. He was originally the deputy chief of staff of a mechanized infantry division, and this can be considered a promotion.

Chen Jiang was appointed as deputy brigade commander, with the military rank of colonel and the rank of regimental commander.

The brigade comprises two regiments, an information technology battalion, and an army aviation helicopter battalion. The main armored regiment is commanded by Zhao Zhenguo, and the mechanized infantry regiment by Zhao Dazhi. Notably, their former motor transport regiment underwent significant reorganization, retaining two battalions of heavy vehicles while converting the rest into mechanized infantry companies, thus enhancing their overall combat effectiveness.

The Information Technology Support Brigade is a deputy regimental-level unit, with Tang Xinyi serving as its captain, and is fully responsible for the information technology support of the entire brigade.

The Army Aviation Helicopter Squadron is also at the deputy regimental level, and its commander, Lan Xinmin, was transferred from another unit.

The brigade has a total strength of over 6,000 personnel and is equipped with a variety of heavy equipment, including tanks, self-propelled artillery, heavy trucks, and armed helicopters, which is unprecedented in the history of our army.

As soon as the news broke, everyone congratulated Chen Jiang.

Yu Genshan was the first to arrive—Chen Jiang's promotion was also beneficial to him.

The notice of Liao Weiliang's transfer to civilian work has been issued, and Yu Genshan will take over as director.

Although it was a lateral transfer, the difference between a deputy and a full-fledged position was significant, and it meant that he still had room for advancement in the military.

The two chatted amicably in the office. Yu Genshan even asked Chen Jiang some questions about the operations department. Of course, Chen Jiang couldn't pretend to be a senior official in front of him. Besides, Yu Genshan had been the deputy director for so many years and knew the functions of all the departments by heart. Yu Genshan's question was clearly just a polite remark.

In contrast, Chen Wenhua was somewhat disappointed.

He had finally been able to wait for Chen Jiang to be transferred, but the position of section chief was still out of his reach.

More importantly, Zhong Yixue was promoted to deputy director, and another strong competitor emerged.

In fact, Chen Jiang only offered some suggestions regarding Zhong Yixue's promotion.

He believed that the female officer was of outstanding quality, and given that she came from a military family, she had a high chance of being promoted even without his recommendation.

As for Chen Wenhua, to be honest, Chen Jiang doesn't know him well, and they haven't known each other for very long.

Moreover, his superiors did not solicit his opinion on the selection of the section chief, so this was not something he should interfere with.

Chen Jiang had no time to dwell on these past grievances and disputes. His task in this department was complete, and his focus was now entirely on a new beginning.

When Chen Jiang went to report for duty, he was personally accompanied by Sun Tongfei, which showed how much importance was attached to Chen Jiang. When they arrived, Long Kaifeng and others were already waiting for them at the entrance of the brigade.

Long Kaifeng stepped forward first and saluted Sun Tongfei: "Welcome, Commander, for your guidance!"

"Haha, Commander Long, you're too kind. You're commanding a completely new unit this time; you have a lot to achieve!" Sun Tongfei's tone was tinged with envy. Although Long Kaifeng was currently only a brigade commander, this unit was a pilot unit on which the higher-ups had high hopes; it was only a matter of time before he reached the same or even higher rank. In a few years, it was truly uncertain who would be calling whom "commander."

After exchanging a few pleasantries, the two got down to business. Actually, there was no need for Sun Tongfei to introduce them; Chen Jiang and Long Kaifeng had worked together back in the 702nd Regiment and were old partners.

"Greetings, Brigade Commander!" Chen Jiang stepped forward and saluted.

"Oh, Deputy Brigade Commander Chen, I never thought we'd be working together again," Long Kaifeng said with a sigh. When he first met Chen Jiang, he was just a captain, but now he's almost as high-ranking as him. Moreover, this kid is resourceful and has a long-term vision; he's definitely destined for great things.

"I am very happy to work under the old leader, and I am sure I can learn a lot." Chen Jiang answered humbly and appropriately, giving Long Kaifeng plenty of face.

Long Kaifeng laughed heartily: "They're not just subordinates, it's the entire brigade leadership team who worked together to build this unit!"

Chen Jiang smiled and nodded.

Subsequently, Long Kaifeng introduced Chen to the brigade's main officers. When they reached Zhao Dazhi, the latter was completely convinced—he had been somewhat unconvinced during the emergency training exercise, but now Chen Jiang was his direct superior.

"Deputy Brigade Commander Chen, please provide more guidance in the future."

"Commander Zhao, please continue to support us." The two exchanged a smile, their unspoken understanding unspoken.

"Good morning, Deputy Brigade Commander Chen!" A hearty voice rang out; it was Zhao Zhenguo. He had brought an armored regiment with him, which was considered a promotion. The regiment consisted of a main battle tank battalion, a heavy self-propelled artillery battalion, and an armored air defense battalion, making it exceptionally powerful.

He was originally full of pride and self-satisfaction. After returning from military academy, he became the commander of the main armored regiment, which was also a pilot unit for the whole army. How glorious he was! But when he saw Chen Jiang, his pride vanished instantly - as a classmate, Chen Jiang was already his superior.

Although there was some disappointment, he was completely convinced of Chen Jiang's abilities. After all, Chen Jiang had been a squad leader and an outstanding student representative during their time at military academy, so it was only natural that he was given important responsibilities.

"Old classmate, we're back together again!" Chen Jiang was also very happy to see Zhao Zhenguo. The other man had a cheerful personality and was easy to get along with. The two clasped hands tightly.

The last one is Tang Xinyi, who was transferred to the position of captain of the information support team, which can be considered as making use of her expertise.

Looking at the three stars on Chen Jiang's shoulder, it would be a lie to say I wasn't envious.

Fortunately, it's a familiar leader, so it's a good thing after all.

"So you know them all? That's great!" Long Kaifeng said with surprise and relief. "These are all key personnel drawn from various units of the military region. I was worried that it would take time for you to get used to each other. Now that you're all familiar with each other, it saves us a lot of trouble."

After seeing Chen Jiang off, Sun Tongfei gave a motivational speech and then prepared to return.

Before leaving, he specifically instructed Chen Jiang: "Do a good job! The higher-ups have high hopes for this unit. If you do an excellent job, there will be even broader horizons waiting for you in the future. Remember, you must always unite and look forward."

(End of this chapter)