Searching for martyrs on the Truong Son range: United in heart

In the Khe Nui Cha Ly forest of Quang Tri province, soldiers from the 337th Economic-Defense Group are engaged in the difficult task of searching for and collecting the remains of fallen soldiers. The team, part of Military Region 4, has set up a temporary base in Trang Ta Puong village, approximately 15 kilometers from their operational area.

Their living quarters are in a traditional Van Kieu stilt house, a community hall, and a kindergarten classroom repurposed for meetings and dining. This setup allows them to be close to the mission site, facilitating their daily efforts. The atmosphere in the village is particularly lively today as members of the local women's and youth unions have arrived to prepare lunch for the soldiers.

"From early morning, we rushed to Huong Phung market to buy ingredients. This is an annual activity that the Women's Union and Youth Union of the 337th Economic-Defense Group coordinate to support the soldiers in the collection team who are working hard on their mission," shared Major Chau Le Huyen, the "head chef" of the group.

“

From early morning, we rushed to Huong Phung market to buy ingredients. This is an annual activity that the Women's Union and Youth Union of the 337th Economic-Defense Group coordinate to support the soldiers in the collection team who are working hard on their mission.

Amidst the bustling temporary kitchen, simple yet hearty meals are prepared and packed into lunchboxes. These meals are then carried by the female soldiers, navigating steep slopes and streams, to their comrades in the Cha Ly forest. The soldiers, often working in harsh conditions under the midday sun, cherish these warm meals that represent the support from home.

"During missions in other places, we also received very precious affection from the people. They saw us working hard, so they brought ducks and chickens to give as gifts. Some families voluntarily looked after our vegetable gardens and barracks when the unit moved far away," said the youngest member of the collection team, Major Nguyen Duc Phuc. These acts of kindness underscore the deep connection between the soldiers and the communities they serve, even as they undertake the solemn duty of recovering and honoring fallen heroes.

“

During missions in other places, we also received very precious affection from the people. They saw us working hard, so they brought ducks and chickens to give as gifts. Some families voluntarily looked after our vegetable gardens and barracks when the unit moved far away.