It was moving to hear Minister of National Defense Tang Yao-ming (
After President Chen Shui-bian (
To them, the ROC is the nation that existed before the KMT's retreat to Taiwan in 1949. So, when they say ROC, the "motherland" on the other side of the Taiwan Strait immediately comes to mind. They think Taiwan is but a small part of this "great China." Their blood begins to boil when they think about the Great Wall and the Yangtze River and they are overwhelmed by a feeling of kinship when they think about the more than 1 billion "compatriots" divided by the Strait.
Tang's statement reflected this mindset. To illustrate the determination of servicemen to fight foreign invaders, he used the battle against Japan's invasion of China six decades ago as example -- one that hardly seems appropriate. The only possible foreign invader Taiwan faces now is China. Unfortunately, it is highly unlikely that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would incite the same kind of grief, indignation and willingness to fight as was seen in China decades ago in the face of the Japanese invasion.
One can try to explain that the "ROC" for which so many people were willing to give their lives no longer exists. But patriotism and loyalty defy logic and reason. Emotions cannot be changed overnight. In a sense, the hardliners in the military and intelligence services are no different from a widow or widower who cannot accept the death of a spouse. It is not uncommon for people who are unable to accept the death of loved one to become schizophrenic.
The civilian sector faces a similar crisis, because the education system still focuses on "Chinese nationalism" though it's marginally less intense than the indoctrination traditionally received by military
recruits.
Key to resolving this identity and loyalty crisis is education, both in the military and in schools. People must be taught that "ROC" now stands for Taiwan -- and Taiwan is the rightful object of their loyalty and patriotism. It is probably too late to change the mindset of the older generations -- but it is not too late for today's children.
The three biggest concerns that the US reportedly has about Taiwan's military are the loyalty, quality and logistic capability of the rank and file. The educational background and logistic capabilities of those serving in the armed forces can be improved fairly quickly -- and easily. It will take a lot more time and energy to shape a new sense of national identity and loyalty.
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