**Interview with Tsiren Rob, the “Most Beautiful Border Guardian”: A Veteran’s Ongoing Commitment to Protecting the Frontier**
By: Gonsang Laram and Liu Xiaodong
Recently, the Administrative Office of the Ali Region in Tibet, alongside the Ali Military Division, held an awards ceremony and storytelling session recognizing the “Most Beautiful Border Guardians” in Shiquanhe Town. The event honored outstanding members of the border defense force, militia, and local citizens who excelled in border control, patrol duties, military training, and political education.
Among the honorees, one name stood out: Tsiren Rob, the Party Secretary and Village Committee Director of Deya Village in Zhada County, Ali Region.
Having served as a soldier in the Ali Military Division after enlisting in 1984, Tsiren underwent a year of training in Yecheng, Xinjiang, before being assigned to the Shubqi Border Defense Company in Deya Township in 1985. Reflecting on the conditions at the time, he shared, “Transportation was extremely difficult. We could only access the area from late June to October.”
After being discharged in 1999, Tsiren remained committed to his role on the frontlines, engaging in activities such as herding while patrolling, maintaining border facilities, and ensuring public safety. He established a volunteer patrol team made up of party members, which he led to regularly assist the military with guarding posts and patrolling.
When asked about his past experiences as a border guardian, Tsiren noted, “Back then, we could only herd sheep and cattle along the border because there were no roads; you had to ride horses or walk to get around. Nowadays, everything has changed dramatically. Roads have been built right up to our doorsteps, and every household has a vehicle, making transportation much easier.”
Having dedicated nearly 40 years to safeguarding the plateau since 1985, Tsiren not only protects the border but also leads his fellow villagers in developing their homeland. He encourages local youth and returning veterans to stay in the highlands to collaboratively build and safeguard the border. In 2016, he made the impactful decision to send his son, Rin Jianji, to serve in the same military unit where he once fought, continuing the family legacy of border protection.
During his military service, Tsiren received three third-class merit awards and post-discharge recognition as a “National Model of Patriotism and Love for the Military,” a “Most Beautiful Supporter of the Military,” and the title of “National Model Individual for Ethnic Unity and Progress,” among other accolades.
Under Tsiren’s leadership, Deya Village has established agricultural and animal husbandry cooperatives, extensively cultivating economic fruit such as Deya red apples and white apricots. They have also launched a brick factory that brings in close to 3 million yuan annually for local residents.
In addition to Tsiren, the recent evaluation also highlighted the contributions of ten other dedicated border guardians, such as Sergeant Major Wei Mengyu and He Jun, who have demonstrated resilience and courage in their duties.
Xu Hui, from a communication station in the Ali Military Division, expressed how the awards and stories shared during the ceremony greatly inspired her, reinforcing her determination and confidence to serve and excel in her work in the highlands. Meanwhile, He Jun reflected on being named a “Most Beautiful Border Guardian,” stating it as the highest recognition for his years of service on the plateau, vowing to continue his dedication to safeguarding the border.
As this story unfolds, it’s clear that individuals like Tsiren Rob not only protect the frontier but also inspire others to contribute to their communities and uphold the spirit of service.
