The delegation, led by Rear Admiral Tran Xuan Van, Party Secretary and Political Commissar of Naval Region 1, included representatives from Naval Region 1 Command, the Air Defense Division F363, and media and mass organizations from Hai Phong City. The mission's focus was visiting units, checking readiness, and delivering Lunar New Year greetings to the deployed forces along the northeastern island routes.
Sailing during the monsoon season is always challenging. Despite the excitement of heading out to the islands, everyone must remain vigilant; even minor lapses can lead to accidents.
Before 1993, Bach Long Vi Island had no settled population. After decades of sustained effort, the island now has electricity, a settled population, a school, and a large storm-shelter harbor for fishermen.
Ms. Tran Thi Huong, a veteran resident of Bach Long Vi, shared: “I grew up here and witnessed the island pass through many difficult stages before gradually developing. Infrastructure and projects are now far more complete and modern”.
Not all naval personnel live aboard ships. Some serve at high altitudes, on mountains and among the clouds, at radar stations. On Bach Long Vi, Radar Station 27 is tasked with monitoring the entire surrounding maritime area.
Radar Station 27 is tasked with monitoring the entire maritime area.
Major Tran Van Quang of Regiment 151, Naval Region 1, said: “Observing the sea 24/7 is demanding. Saying it’s not tiring wouldn’t be honest. But our motivation comes from our families back home. On the frontline, we are committed to protecting national sovereignty by staying with the sea and the islands. We are determined to ensure that our country is never caught off guard from the maritime direction, and we accept all hardships to fulfill our duties”.
Beyond readiness inspections, the delegation placed special emphasis on bringing the warmth from the mainland to those stationed far offshore because a strong home front provides peace of mind to those on the frontline.
Rear Admiral Tran Xuan Van, Secretary of the Party Committee and Political Commissar of Naval Region 1.
Speaking to reporters, Rear Admiral Tran Xuan Van said, “This voyage carries profound meaning as we visit and extend Tet wishes to the military personnel and civilians on remote islands. It reflects the affection and responsibility of naval soldiers. We hope this care and commitment will serve as great encouragement to the people and forces on Bach Long Vi, the northeastern outpost of the Fatherland, to stand united with us in firmly safeguarding maritime sovereignty”.
On Cat Hai Island, naval personnel shared a meaningful day preparing for the Lunar New Year. Soldiers and local high school students wrapped banh chung together. Without the sound of wind and waves, one might have thought they were on the mainland.
Each inspection and Lunar New Year visit evokes strong emotions for those stationed on distant islands, especially young soldiers celebrating their first Tet away from home. Though separated from their families, they are surrounded by the care and affection of the mainland.
