GaoZhibang, an 88-year-old veteran in Togtoh county in Hohhot, North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, donated 20,000 yuan ($2,883) on Saturday and 10,000 yuan on Sunday to the local government for contribute to the fight against the novel coronavirus.

Since its outbreak and spread, the novel coronavirus has aroused public concerns, including from Gao, who joined in the army in 1949.

"Once a medical soldier fighting on the battlefield, I thought I must do something to share difficulties with our country together," Gao wrote in a letter of donation. "Due to old age, I can't get back to the frontline, so I decided to donate my savings."

The amount is not small for Gao and his wife, who mainly live on government subsidies.

"From information I got via radio and government staff, I have learned the serious conditions about the new epidemic as well as the medical workers' hard work," he said. "I hope the donation can be used to buy some protective equipment for medical staff."

"It is just a negligible contribution to society, but my biggest wish is to welcome the victory soon with the efforts of the whole nation," he added.

After retiring, Gao won several honors, including the commemorative medal for the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the title of "the most kind-hearted veteran" in Hohhot in 2019.