Anti-Japanese War: From Becoming Chu Yunfei to Rising

Inside the meeting room, everyone had just taken their seats.

Qian Bojun couldn't help but ask, "Your Excellency, is that 'divine punishment' plan real?"

"Can the Japanese really create a plague artificially?"

There was a hint of disbelief in Qian Bojun's voice.

In his simple military mindset, war should be about guns against guns and cannons against cannons.

The most despicable Japanese devils could manage was to release some poison gas or use some incendiary bombs.

All of these are still within his acceptable range.

Using such despicable, invisible, and intangible methods to indiscriminately attack civilians is far beyond his imagination.

Chu Yunfei sat in the main seat, rubbing his temples, his face etched with exhaustion: "To be frank, based on the information we have right now, no one can say for sure."

"Given the current level of biotechnology demonstrated by the Japanese, whether they truly possess the ability to artificially create and spread plagues on a large scale remains to be seen. However, we must take precautions. And how do we take precautions?"

Chu Yunfei glanced around at everyone present and then said, "There's a lot of intricacies involved here."

Just as everyone was pondering the deeper meaning behind Chu Yunfei's words.

Chu Yunfei stood up and walked directly to the map behind him: "North China is about to enter winter. Our North China region is freezing cold, and it can almost be described as water freezing instantly."

If our enemies had any sense at all, they wouldn't choose this season to airdrop fleas and rats carrying plague bacteria.

"After all, it's impossible to survive in such low temperatures."

Chu Yunfei raised his voice and made a basic judgment based on this matter: "I judge that the Japanese army will not immediately carry out their Divine Punishment Operation plan before the beginning of next spring. We still have at least three to four months to prepare."

"During this period, we need to do more than just prepare for the response."

A cold killing intent flashed in Chu Yunfei's eyes: "It is also our last window to eliminate internal problems and consolidate our own foundation."

"Your Excellency, what do you mean?"

Fang Ligong clearly misunderstood: "Take advantage of this time to speed up the bandit suppression process in Henan?"

Qian Bojun also sighed, filled with emotion: "The old commander's days in Henan must have been tough."

Commanding a cavalry army to suppress bandits certainly sounds impressive.

However, there were too many bandits in the Henan region.

In western Henan alone, with the cooperation of a part of the 22nd Army Group, it took half a year to barely control the number of bandits.

With such a small force, it's highly unlikely they can eradicate the deep-seated problems in this land.

To solve the bandit problem in Henan, they would have to escalate their efforts.

"There's not much to worry about regarding payment issues in Henan. All the new recruits from various theater commands in North China will be heading to Henan for combat training."

"This matter will also be used as an assessment item for all the units. At present, this matter is progressing steadily and is just waiting for the approval of the General Headquarters. For now, we can only ask Commander Zhao to bear with it for the time being."

Fang Ligong was puzzled. If it wasn't a payment issue in Henan, then what was it?
After thinking for a while, Fang Ligong chose to ask directly: "Then what is Your Excellency referring to?"

"It's naturally a matter of smuggling within the military."

smuggling!

Chu Yunfei had previously cracked down on this issue in southeastern Shanxi.

Taking this opportunity, they killed many merchants and landlords who intended to make a fortune by smuggling with the Japanese.

The moment the word "smuggling" comes out...

Fang Ligong immediately understood Chu Yunfei's line of thinking; he was very familiar with it.

To put it nicely, it's about doing something for the country and the people; to put it bluntly, it's about using pretexts to eliminate dissidents!
Chu Yunfei turned his gaze to Cao Potian, the head of the inspection department.

"Yun Cheng".

Chu Yunfei's voice was devoid of any emotion: "Did you find any leads on the case in the district I asked you to investigate before?"

Upon hearing Chu Yunfei's call, Cao Potian immediately stood up from his seat, straightening his body like a javelin. "Reporting to Your Excellency."

"The basic facts have been verified."

"Zhang Debiao, the commander of the recruit training regiment in the district involved in the case, abused his power over the past six months to embezzle a total of 3,260 yuan in food expenses from new recruits! His subordinate troop transport officers and troop receiving officers from various units all received a share of the profits, and the amounts were all extremely large!"

His answer was concise and powerful.

"More than three thousand yuan!"

Zhang Dayun, who had been silently smoking to the side, exploded upon hearing the figure. He slammed his fist on the table, stood up, and cursed, "Damn it! I, the deputy head of the operations section, risked my life on the front lines every day during the war, and I couldn't even save three thousand yuan in two years. These bastards hiding in the rear, sucking the blood of soldiers, dare to embezzle so much just for transporting troops!"

"Why?"

"Yes, why should they?" Qian Bojun also shouted, "These parasites deserve to die!"

Chu Yunfei also frowned deeply.

Three thousand national currency!

Even today, North China possesses extremely strong purchasing power.

This is equivalent to 3,000 catties of grain, 180 brand-new Chiang Kai-shek rifles, or four Type 24 grenade launchers.

How much did he, as the chief consultant, actually receive in a month? His salary during this national crisis was only 240 yuan!
Including his position as chief advisor to the military training department and the various subsidies he received from the General Headquarters, he earned less than 1,200 yuan a month in total.

"Your Excellency!" Cao Potian looked at Chu Yunfei and asked, "The evidence in this matter is conclusive. I wonder how we should proceed?"

Chu Yunfei's eyes remained completely calm; he simply uttered two words: "Strictly handle."

Cao Potian nodded as if he understood, just as he was pondering Chu Yunfei's deeper meaning.

Unlike before, Chu Yunfei didn't leave things unsaid, making things more difficult for him. Instead, he directly expressed his needs: "Severely punish all those involved and knowledgeable about the case in accordance with the Anti-Treason Law promulgated last year."

"Everyone, regardless of rank, shall be severely punished!"

"Kill those who deserve to die, arrest those who deserve to be arrested, leave no one behind!"

"We must make good use of this window of opportunity to deter domestic scoundrels!"

Cao Potian asked, "Sir, much of the evidence points to Liu Zhi, the former director of the New Recruit Training Office of the First War Zone. Should we consult with the authorities in Shancheng on how to proceed?"

In his view, the division was nominally under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Military Affairs, and it also involved one of the Five Tiger Generals.

Chu Yunfei waved his hand dismissively: "No need. A mere commander of a training regiment in a divisional district, killing someone like that doesn't require asking the Chairman for permission."

His voice carried an undeniable air of dominance.

then.

After pondering for a moment, Chu Yunfei added, "In addition, the Inspectorate will continue to follow up on the lead you previously reported regarding the 'smuggling of strategic materials'."

"Regardless of who is involved behind this line."

"Is he a powerful figure in the local area, or some 'big shot' in the mountain city?"

"Your inspection department must investigate this thoroughly!"

"At the same time, it is essential to maintain confidentiality."

"If you encounter any problems during the investigation that you cannot solve, that is, the kind of force majeure factors."

"Report to me directly immediately!"

The words fell.

Everyone present understood.

Chu Yunfei, you're using this as an excuse to make a big fuss!
He wanted to take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen internal control in order to guard against Japanese germ warfare.

Let's carry out a thorough cleanup of those deeply entrenched and entrenched smuggling and corruption networks!
Cao Potian felt a chill run down his spine. Having accumulated a wealth of work experience in the military law department of the Second World War Zone, he naturally knew what a hot potato he was now taking on.

only.

His personality meant he felt no fear, only a fearless spirit.

"Yes, Your Excellency, then what direction and scope should our investigation take?"

"There is no direction, and no scope."

"I have only one requirement: whoever is involved must report to me."

Anyone can check, with no upper limit.

Chu Yunfei cleared his throat and emphasized again, "I want to emphasize three points regarding the next steps of the Inspection Department."
-

After the brief meeting ended.

Without pausing for a moment, Cao Potian immediately returned to the Inspectorate.

The office of the Inspectorate under the Joint Command was located in Changzhi City.

On the way, sitting in the jeep, Cao Potian was still pondering the two key tasks assigned by Chu Yunfei.

Firstly, there is the issue of corruption in the process of conscription, training, and sending soldiers.

The interests involved behind this are extremely deep and extensive, and have long formed a deeply entrenched interest group.

Many senior commanders of the military were involved, and those in charge mostly tacitly approved of it; everyone understands the principle that "too much purity leaves no room for fish."

To try and take a bite out of this pie is tantamount to going against the unspoken rules of the entire old army.

Secondly, it is necessary to investigate smuggling issues in North China.

This matter is particularly serious, and its nature is even worse than corruption.

Previously in Shaanxi Province, there were records of unscrupulous businessmen colluding with the Japanese invaders to smuggle large timber, an important strategic resource, to the Japanese.

These are precious resources that are used up little by little, and we must not let them benefit the Japanese.

Moreover, smuggling inevitably involves resources flowing into the black market, disrupting the market, and driving up prices, among other problems.

Thinking about it this way, Cao Potian felt an immense pressure on his shoulders.

……

The next day, in the internal conference room of the Inspectorate.

The atmosphere was quite serious.

The air seemed to be filled with a chilling atmosphere.

Cao Potian sat in the main seat, his face ashen.

Behind him hung two calligraphy scrolls.

A group is like a family, and comrades are like brothers and sisters.

Unite our will to defend our homeland.

The former statement is Dai Yunong's opinion, and the latter is also derived from Dai Yunong's words; Chu Yunfei simply refined and simplified them.

Two newly appointed deputy directors sat in front of Cao Potian.

Mao Renfeng represented the Military Intelligence Bureau, and Ye Xiufeng represented the Central Bureau of Investigation and Statistics.

As for the rest, they were elite personnel drawn from the two major systems.

"Everyone."

Cao Potian cut to the chase and said, "Yesterday, the chief advisor issued the latest instructions. Our inspection department will focus on two key areas in our work going forward."

He pushed the two documents in front of Mao Renfeng and Ye Xiufeng respectively.

"Deputy Director Mao."

Cao Potian looked at Mao Renfeng and said, "You and your men will be fully responsible for investigating the corruption and fraud in the military recruitment process."

"Deputy Director Ye."

Cao Potian then turned to Ye Xiufeng, "The task of investigating the smuggling network in North China is entrusted to you."

This arrangement is nothing short of ingenious.

The Military Intelligence Bureau (MIB) is known for its strong operational capabilities and ruthless methods, making it a perfect fit to deal with those arrogant and unruly soldiers in the military.

The Central Bureau of Investigation and Statistics (CBIS) is better at intelligence analysis and cyber infiltration. Using them to deal with smugglers hiding in the business and political circles is also making the best use of their talents.

Most importantly, the Military Intelligence Bureau (MIB) maintained good relationships with many military officers. The Central Bureau of Investigation and Statistics (CBIS) also handled its relationships with local officials very well.

The task has now been assigned.

Even if it's just to get the job done, they'll still arrest "their own people," even when they can't protect their own people.

It's certain that a rift will develop.

Both Mao and Ye's expressions changed slightly as they looked at the documents in their hands.

They know it too.

Chu Yunfei has presented each of them with an enormous problem.

Cao Potian seemed to see through their concerns and continued, "The chief advisor also has specific instructions regarding these two tasks."

"For those local forces and wealthy businessmen's children who evade military service through bribery and other means."

"Our approach can be more flexible."

"The chief advisor suggested adopting the model of 'Qing Dynasty fines for crimes,' which, to put it simply, is a fine."

"Punish them until they are severely injured, but not to the point of bankruptcy; punish them until they never dare to have such crooked thoughts again!"

"And for those military personnel who accepted bribes."

Cao Potian's voice suddenly turned cold: "Then we must, according to the severity of the circumstances, severely punish them according to the law!"

The 'law' here is not ordinary law.

Instead, the Republic of China Wartime Military Law was promulgated in 37.

In addition, the "Supplementary Articles of the Wartime Military Law of the Republic of China" personally promulgated by Chang Ruiyuan after the Battle of Wuhan.

"Those who should be dismissed should be dismissed, those who should be imprisoned should be imprisoned, and those who should be executed should not be spared!"

He surveyed the crowd, each word seemingly squeezed out from between his teeth, filled with undeniable authority and murderous intent.

"Finally, I want to emphasize three points, which are also the three 'absolutely nots' of the chief consultant!"

"First, this operation must be kept strictly confidential to ensure its effectiveness. We must not alert the enemy before we have solid evidence!"

"Secondly, all leads uncovered in the investigation must be fully followed up and thoroughly investigated to the end, and no one involved in the case must be let off the hook!"

"Third, no matter who is involved, no matter how high their position or how deep their background, we will treat them all equally, punish them severely, and never tolerate any crime!"

Faced with these three resolute "absolutely not".

The air in the entire conference room seemed to freeze.

Ye Xiufeng and Mao Renfeng, two ruthless intelligence chiefs in their respective systems, felt a chill run down their spines at this moment.

They knew that Chu Yunfei was serious this time.

The two exchanged a glance, immediately stood up straight, and solemnly saluted Cao Potian.

"Please rest assured, Director!"

"Please rest assured, Chief Advisor!"

"We will strictly follow orders and complete the assigned tasks!"

The atmosphere in the meeting room eased slightly after the two sat down again.

Ye Xiufeng hesitated for a moment, then cautiously asked a question: "Director, regarding the Japanese invaders' 'divine punishment' holy war plan, should our inspection department continue to send people to follow up on it?"

Upon hearing this, Cao Potian simply shook his head calmly: "No need."

His answer was straightforward: "The General Headquarters has handed this matter over to the Military Intelligence Bureau for handling."

"Boss Dai will take charge personally."

“Our Inspection Department.”

He looked at Ye Xiufeng, a meaningful glint in his eyes: "All you need to do is follow orders."

"Doing our own job well is the greatest support we can give to the Chairman."

Upon hearing this, Ye Xiufeng's heart skipped a beat, and he immediately lowered his head: "Yes, this subordinate understands."

Before lowering his head, he glanced at the arrogant Mao Renfeng.

Compared to the Central Bureau of Investigation and Statistics (CBIS), Chu Yunfei was naturally closer to the Military Bureau of Investigation and Statistics (JBIS).

After all, the Central Bureau of Investigation and Statistics (CBIS) had done too many shady things, and its main targets were its own people.

The Military Intelligence Bureau's main targets were the Japanese, but the situation changed drastically during that period.

Ye Xiufeng also knew that Cao Potian was warning him not to overstep the boundaries and not to ask too many questions.

Time flies by like a flash.

In the blink of an eye, a month passed quietly.

This was thanks to the successful "exchange of interests" between Chu Yunfei and Stilwell.

The supplies that were previously seized in Yangon.

Finally, as promised, supplies began to be continuously delivered to North China.

One after another, the "Liberty" ships, laden with American equipment and industrial raw materials, docked at the port of Yangon.

Then, the goods were transported to inland China via the recently repaired Burma Road and the Yangon-Kunming shipping route, traveling day and night.

The final distribution ratio of the entire batch of aid supplies also reflects the tacit understanding between the US and Chongqing.

The expeditionary force, due to its need to defend Southeast Asia, deter British India, and form a new force (the Marine Corps), took 35 percent of the total supplies.

The remaining 65 percent was shipped to China.

Of that 65 percent, the North China Joint Command took 70 percent.

The remaining 30% will be allocated by the Chongqing authorities to appease other war zones within the country.

Not all of the $300 million in aid is military aid.

The actual amount used to purchase weapons and equipment was only about 130 million US dollars.

The remaining economic aid mostly takes the form of loans, technical support, and other forms.

One hundred and thirty million US dollars.

It sounds like an astronomical figure.

But if all of it is used to replace light weapons.

It was just enough to arm twenty-five one-off light infantry divisions equipped with sufficient mountain guns and mortars.

Such troops are hardly of any use on the battlefield today.

Its military equipment level.

It is only slightly stronger than the existing "Class B Infantry Divisions" of the National Revolutionary Army.

They perform well in defensive operations, but when it comes to the general offensive phase, such troops will only increase the burden of compensation.

Lin Wei and others made a rough estimate.

The supplies eventually ended up in the hands of the North China Joint Command.

The total value is approximately US$59 million.

Of this, nearly 30 million yuan was used by Chu Yunfei to purchase urgently needed medical drugs, surgical equipment, and epidemic prevention supplies.

The remaining 20 million was used to purchase weapons and ammunition.

In particular, Chu Yunfei had specifically requested a light tank from Stilwell.

Heavy weaponry is extremely expensive.

A US Army M4 Sherman medium tank, a mainstay of the US military.

Although the "friendship price" was only $80,000 sold to China.

PS: At this point in time, the initial production cost of Sherman was around $49,000.

However, the subsequent maintenance costs, personnel training costs, and the seemingly inexhaustible gasoline consumption are still astronomical figures for a poor and weak China.

They certainly couldn't afford it.

Ultimately, Chu Yunfei opted for the M3 "Stuart" light tank, which offered better value for money and was more suitable for China's terrain.

even so.

These forty-eight brand-new Stuarts have almost completely exhausted all the aid funds.

Similarly, these 48 light tanks, along with the T-26 light tanks of the previous armored regiment, will become the first truly significant armored assault force in North China.

The North China Joint Command plans to expand the existing armored regiment into a mechanized infantry division in about a year, based on the previous one, for mobile assault operations, which is also well-suited for maneuvering on the vast plains outside the Great Wall!
……

Meanwhile, the military forces in North China were undergoing a complete transformation due to the arrival of these supplies.

It's far away in the mountain city.

Inside a brightly lit restaurant.

Liu Zhi, who was dismissed from his post because of the air-raid shelter tragedy, was embracing two dancers dressed in glamorous cheongsams, drinking heavily and having a great time.

He has always been “indifferent” to the fighting on the front lines.

In Liu Zhi's view, if the sky were to fall, someone tall would hold it up.

As for him, he only needs to enjoy his peaceful life in the rear.

Just as he was half-drunk and preparing to take two beauties to "listen to some music,"

A trusted adjutant rushed in, looking flustered.

And she whispered a few words in his ear.

Liu Zhi, who was still drowsy from drinking, became more alert after listening to the story.

The alcohol on his face vanished instantly, and he sobered up considerably!
The adjutant brought only one message.

The North China "Inspectorate" is secretly investigating a series of personnel arrangements and fund usage issues that Liu Zhi made when he served as the director of the New Recruit Training Office in the First War Zone!
Liu Zhi was taken aback, his face filled with anger: "Damn it, aren't they investigating the Japanese? How did they get involved with me?"

The adjutant smiled and said, "In the past month alone, the Inspectorate has executed four regimental commanders in the divisional area, implicating dozens of people. There are also hundreds of people being interrogated. All officers involved in favoritism and corruption in military recruitment have been punished to varying degrees."

Liu Zhi felt a chill run from the soles of his feet straight to the top of his head!

he knows.

All those shady dealings they've done before—planting cronies, embezzling military pay, and reselling arms—are about to be exposed!
Cao Potian, this ruthless "living Yama," actually managed to bring his knife down on the head of one of the "Five Tiger Generals."

Liu Zhi didn't sleep a wink that night.

He hesitated all night.

He struggled repeatedly between "fighting to the bitter end" and "taking the initiative to confess".

finally.

The instinct for survival prevailed over that pitiful glimmer of hope.

After all, if it weren't for He Yingqin's protection, he would have been sentenced to death in the special military tribunal presided over by Wu Tiecheng and He Chengjun.

Early the next morning.

Liu Zhi immediately changed into a rather plain military uniform.

Alone, he went to the headquarters.

After thinking about it all night, Liu Zhi figured it out.

He decided not to wait for the Inspectorate's blade to fall, or to report the matter to the General Staff.

At that time, he would inevitably be in a passive position.

He wanted to proactively apologize to the Chairman, pleading for his life with utmost loyalty! (End of Chapter)