Xia Lei. This name blew about the world like a raging wind. The online searches for ‘Xia Lei and Gust assault rifle’ and XL2500 sniper rifle’ increased by the tens of millions. His picture, and images of the Gust assault rifle and XL2500 sniper rifle appeared on all the online and paper print media outlets. 

Father of Rifles – this was the honorary title which China had bestowed upon him. This title also became the most cited keyword by the media. 

All this extensive reporting meant that Xia Lei’s background was also dug up. Ordinary family, ordinary school, and only a high school diploma. His history of working on construction sites and his love life was also made public, and that made him a great aspiring figure to millions of youths. His inspirational life experiences also became an example for parents educating their children. 

This sort of idolisation was not celebrity idol worship, since Xia Lei’s skills...