As we mentioned, this year troops from the People's Liberation Army took over as the flag guards and cannon firers; duties previously handled by the Chinese Armed Police. In the past, three-dozen soldiers used to guard the five-star flag into the square, but from this year, that number has been increased to 96.  There were some other changes from the norm this year. The procession was led by three officers clad in the uniforms of the Army, Navy and Air Force. Each drew a sword upon walking past the Golden Water Bridge. Meanwhile, eight soldiers played a piece of music which was specially composed for the ceremony.