Pyongyang, December 24 (KCNA) -- December 24 marks the 20th anniversary of Kim Jong Il's assumption of the supreme commandership of the Korean People's Army.

Upon hearing the news that Kim Jong Il passed away so suddenly, all the Korean servicepersons lament over his death, missing their close ties with the supreme commander.

Kim Jong Il loved the soldiers so much.

Whenever he inspected a unit, he always watched soldiers' training and paid deep concern to their political and ideological education and entertainment, encouraging them to do well in their military service.

His warm love for the soldiers produced a harmonious whole between them and a great unity of the leader, army and people.