Guardian of Sansha marine lines

Chen Zongqing adjusts his uniform as he prepares to supervise Qiongsha No 3 supply ship anchored on Yongxing Island in Sansha city, South China's Hainan province, Aug 24, 2012. Chen works as a marine affairs supervisor based on Yongxing Island, and his major duties include safety supervision, ship maintenance, and emergency responses. Residents of Yongxing Island call the Qiongsha No 3, the island's only supply ship, a "ship of lives". The vessel is also the main means of transportation to and from the island. Since the establishment of Sansha city on July 24, the smallest prefecture-level city in China in land area and population, there are more tourists heading to Yongxing Island and Qiongsha No 3 has to increase its number of journeys, leading to a growing workload for Chen. But Chen said he felt proud to work in marine affairs and serve the homeland. [Photo/Xinhua]