No Pain, No Gain - Soliders Pinned into Correct Posture

If you think the disruptions to traffic and public transport in the lead up to the October 1 National Day parade have been painful, spare a thought for what the soldiers have been going through.

State news agency Xinhua recently released a series of pictures revealing some of the methods employed to ensure the troops keep their heads straight while marching. As you can see, pins seem to be the preferred method of stoop deterrence. Och!

The photo selection also featured the unglamorous shot below, with a caption claiming the "sweat smell shows their loyalty." Mmm... perhaps it's just as well none of us ordinary folk will be let too close to the parade.