Soaring high above the clouds, with aspirations of serving the nation! As every song must come to an end, so too must life, for we are nothing more than a speck of sand in the great sea of time. Former Minister of National Defense Lee Tien-yu’s generosity, honorable conduct, outstanding innovation, excellent leadership, and positive energy during his years of service reflect his unwavering commitment to the nation and his aspirations. Amidst a nation rocked by uncertainty, Lee’s firm defense of the nation became a pillar of support for social stability.
Born on May 23, 1946, in Nanjing, Lee aspired to take to the sky from an early age. To achieve his dreams of defending the nation’s skies, Lee joined the Air Force Academy in 1963. After graduating from the Air Force Academy in 1965, Lee would further complete his military education by graduating from the Tri-Service University’s Air Command and Staff College, Class of 1981; and the Tri-Service University’s War College, Class of 1988. During his studies, Lee proved himself to be persistent in his studies, laying the foundation for his future success.
Lee was a kind and sincere man, who was often generous, humble, and forward to those around him. In addition to having a unique leadership style, Lee was known to have a remarkable memory, being able to recall every service member he ever met. Lee also advised his officers on leadership with several amusing quotes, such as “Rather than losing your temper, being frustrated, or bickering, try and prove yourself” and “Lose your temper and you’ll lose luck along with it”. With his many years of military experience, Lee always strived to share his knowledge and insights with junior officers, providing officers of all ranks a refreshing and insightful learning experience.
Enhancing the ROCAF’s combat capabilities with a new generation of fighters
Lee had previously served as squadron leader, air group commander, wing commander, inspector general, political warfare director, Air Force Combatant Command Commander, and Deputy Commanding General. Possessing extensive experience in both academic and professional fields, Lee was awarded countless medals during his long years of service. After joining the ROCAF, Lee had safely ejected from his aircraft three times due to malfunctions and was widely acknowledged to be a fortunate and blessed man.
After assuming the position of ROCAF Chief on February 1, 2002, Lee was promoted to General, Second-Class, of the Air Force. Under his leadership, Lee strove to implement the “resolute defense and effective deterrence” strategic concept, carrying out force buildup policies by improving the quality of forces and restructuring military organization. These efforts aimed to enhance the military’s joint operations capability by upgrading equipment and developing a logistics and management system. Lee was also dedicated to military diplomacy, allowing the ROCAF to win international recognition for its piloting skills and maintenance capabilities. Furthermore, under Lee’s guidance, the ROCAF introduced a new generation of fighters that significantly boosted its combat capabilities - including F-16 Fighting Falcons and Mirage 2000s. Lee was dedicated to reinforcing national defense throughout his life, establishing himself as a key figure in the ROCAF’s modernization.
Strengthening joint combat capabilities and establishing a common operational concept
On May 20, 2004, Lee was appointed the 19th Chief of the General Staff and promoted to General, First-Class, of the Air Force. During his three years as Chief of the General Staff, Lee constantly visited the rank and file, standardized military orders and policies, and implemented the second phase of the Jing-shi Streamlining Program. Lee’s efforts laid the foundation for the military’s transformation, paving the way for it to become a quality, efficient, and highly capable combat force.
“Warfare is the military’s primary mission, with victory being its utmost priority” - Despite the addition of Kidd-class destroyers, E-2 Hawkeye AEW aircraft, AAV7 assault amphibious vehicles, and other advanced weapons in recent years to its forces, the military has persisted in introducing the concept of joint operations in both its operations and training to boost efficiency. By emphasizing training and early warning, the military has reinforced its response mechanisms to accommodate the new requirements of its newly adjusted military organization and newly-acquired equipment, allowing it to maintain the initiative through advantages in intelligence. As a result, the military has made significant progress in all aspects of its operational capabilities.
On February 1, 2007, Lee retired from the military and was appointed as a presidential strategic advisor. Lee would later be awarded the Order of Blue Sky and White Sun, recognizing his long and prestigious military career.
Serving as Minister of Defense and promoting military-civilian policies
On May 21, 2007, Lee was appointed as the 25th Minister of National Defense soon after his appointment as a strategic advisor. During his tenure, Lee persisted in his duties and enforcing national policies, striving to improve the military and introduce new concepts to officers of all ranks. Lee also strove to promote all-out defense awareness among the public, which sought to strengthen military-civilian collaboration. Such collaboration would assist in the development of military technology and facilitate organizational changes, thus improving the military’s overall operational capabilities. Lee’s dedication to promoting the well-being of troops also made him a beloved figure among them.
As Minister of National Defense, Lee completed the Taiping Island Airport’s 1200m runway within 273 working days - a remarkable feat of engineering that also showcased national sovereignty. On January 1, 2008, Lee successfully reduced mandatory military service to one year, laying the foundation for the current military conscription system and demonstrating his long and lasting influence on force buildup and reform policies.
One notable achievement of Lee’s was his constant engagement with the Legislative Yuan. Regardless of whether he was serving as a liaison or personally presenting national defense reports, Lee was noted for his steadfast and dignified conduct while being questioned and was always able to reply to each question with detail and sincerity. Lee’s attitude and conduct during his tenure upheld public respect for the military while fostering a positive relationship between the military and the Legislative Yuan.
On February 25, 2008, Lee formally retired from public service. After 40 years of service in the military and government, Lee’s faithful service left an impressive record for all to behold, along with a legacy of honor and duty to the nation - a true example for all.
Lee dedicated his entire life to faithfully serving the nation, leaving behind a string of achievements in his efforts to build up the military. His contributions were instrumental in laying the foundation for the military and nation’s stability and advancements. Although we are greatly saddened by his departure, we will honor and remember his everlasting legacy and will forever be indebted to his contributions.
Source: Youth Daily News (2024.12.26)