Some of the officers and men from the Zone 3 Naval High Command have remained on duty safeguarding the country's sovereignty over its territorial waters instead of returning to their homes to enjoy the Tet Festival with their beloved families.

Whilst Da Nang residents are enjoying the bustling and joyful Tet atmosphere in the city, the naval solders are strictly maintaining combat readiness at their units.  In particular, those who are involved in military tactics, information delivery, air defence control, and radar systems management are hard at work.

Naval soldiers at a military exercise

On the last day of the lunar year many personnel from Brigade 172, which is under the control of the Zone 3 Naval High Command, were excitedly making preparations for Tet at their unit.  They were pruning ornamental trees in the brigade’s gardens, painting their work rooms, and holding a year-end party, as well as preparing for a “banh chung” (square glutinous rice cake)-making competition, a musical performance, and other entertainments.  In addition, the soldiers were busy cleaning equipment and weapons, and painting the naval ships whose guns are always combat ready.

On the same day, crew members on board Brigade 161’s ship HQ629 were eagerly making traditional Tet dishes, including “banh chung” and dua mon (pickle made from carrot, daikon and green papaya).  These foods will be eaten during their forthcoming patrol into Viet Nam’ territory waters.  A cozy year-end party for the crew members was also organised on board.

Sergeant Vu Duc Thang remarked that, although this was his first Tet away from home, the bond of comradeship helped him to overcome his homesickness.  He also noted that it is a great honour for him to fulfil his sacred duty to help his Fatherland enjoy a peaceful and happy Tet.

Another young soldier, Nguyen Van Giap, confidently said that he and his colleagues are strongly determined to fulfil their assigned tasks well, as dedicated Vietnamese naval soldiers do, despite all the hardships and difficulties.