Driver of train D2809 dies heroically on duty

The casket of Yang Yong, driver of the D2809 train who died on duty, returned to his hometown of Zunyi city, southwest China’s Guizhou province on June 5, and the public spontaneously greeted the hero on his way home.

The D2809 passenger train was derailed at about 10:30 on June 4 before entering the Rongjiang station due to a mudslide. Back then, the train was running along the Guiyang-Guangdong railway.

The on-board data shows that the driver Yang Yong took emergency braking measures within 5 seconds when he found that the driving line was abnormal. At the critical moment, he had protected the safety of the passengers on board, but he himself was tragically killed.

"Locomotive drivers must undergo long-term training before they are officially hired, so that taking the emergency brake will become a muscle memory,” said Chinese rail professionals in an interview, adding Yang has showed perseverance and professionalism of a train driver.

Born in 1976, Yang Yong enlisted in the army in 1993 and served in the People's Armed Police in Hainan Province. He served as a squad leader during his military service and received awards such as Outstanding Soldier.

After retiring from the army in 1996, Yang held the positions of deputy driver, chief engineer, driver, instructional driver, ground crew and bullet train driver. The veterans' affairs department now is assisting his family with the aftermath.

In Chinese, Yang Yong's name means being brave. As his name fits, Yang's deeds are proof of bravery, for he gave his life to save all passengers on the train, illustrating the soul of a Chinese soldier.

Source: People' s Daily; Trans-editing by Li Jingshuo