Amidst the vast and stormy sea, the DK1 platforms stand firm like steely blossoms, safeguarding the sovereignty of the nation’s seas and islands. Beyond their duty, the officers and soldiers stationed at these platforms take great pleasure in growing vegetables and engaging in self-sufficient production, creating lush green gardens in the middle of the ocean.

Senior Lieutenant Do Duy Duc with the lush green vegetable garden tended by officers and soldiers of DK1/21 Platform. Photo: DAC MANH

With creativity and determination, overcoming harsh conditions, soldiers at DK1 platforms have meticulously nurtured lush vegetable gardens using simple foam boxes and plastic pots. Various crops such as morning glory and Malabar spinach, providing fresh and nutritious meals for the officers and soldiers on the platforms.

Senior Lieutenant Bui Thanh Hung, Political Officer of DK1/9, explained that while essential supplies such as rice, pork, chicken, duck, and vegetables like zucchini, carrots, potatoes, and kohlrabi are consistently provided, fresh leafy vegetables remain a challenge. Due to difficulties in transportation and storage, leafy greens do not last long, and during stormy weather, resupply becomes even more difficult.

"That is why, beyond fulfilling our duties, during breaks and on days off, the officers and soldiers tend to the vegetable gardens and go fishing, not just for recreation but also to supplement our food supply. Growing vegetables not only improves our meals but also creates a refreshing green space, boosting the soldiers' morale," Senior Lieutenant Hung shared.

Lieutenant Nguyen Dinh Phuc, in charge of the DK1/9 vegetable garden, recounted how larger DK1 platforms now dedicate space from older platforms for vegetable cultivation and livestock farming. "The biggest challenge is the weather. During the rainy season, strong winds and continuous downpours damage the crops, requiring careful shielding. Meanwhile, the dry season poses a water shortage, so the soldiers conserve freshwater from daily use for irrigation. Raising chickens and ducks is particularly tough during the rainy season, as exposure to rain can be fatal for them. During storms, the entire team takes turns on watch, and if any coverings come loose, they brave the storm to secure and repair them immediately," Lieutenant Phuc explained.

Despite the challenging conditions and limited growing space, the resilience and ingenuity of DK1 soldiers ensure an annual yield of 300–400 kg of fresh vegetables and 1,500–1,700 kg of fish, sufficient to meet daily food demands. Since all planting materials such as plastic trays, foam boxes, seeds, and soil must be transported from the mainland, the soldiers treat every handful of soil with great care. Before planting, the soil is meticulously processed and enriched with fish-based compost.

The vegetable garden on DK1/21 Platform covers approximately 30 square metres. Despite its limited space, the planting trays and pots are neatly arranged, creating a lush green oasis in the middle of the sea. Senior Lieutenant Do Duy Duc (DK1/21 Platform) shared that due to the harsh maritime climate, the key to maintaining a thriving vegetable garden is proper shielding, consistent watering, and diligent care including pest control and weeding. Materials such as nets and tarpaulins are used to mitigate the impact of strong winds. "Most importantly, maximising the use of freshwater is crucial. Watering must be consistent but carefully regulated to prevent root rot," Senior Lieutenant Duc explained.

Senior Lieutenant Le Xuan Quy, Political Officer of DK1/21 Platform, emphasised that no chemical fertilisers or pesticides are used in these gardens. All soil is carefully transported from the mainland and enriched with natural compost made from needlefish caught by the soldiers. "Growing vegetables not only diversifies our meals and enhances nutrition, but it also strengthens camaraderie among soldiers, helping them cope with homesickness," Senior Lieutenant Quy shared.

The vegetable gardens on DK1 platforms are more than just a source of fresh produce as they stand as a powerful symbol of resilience and determination. They tell a compelling story of the dedicated naval officers and soldiers who, day and night, stand firm in their mission to protect the sovereignty of the nation's seas, islands, and continental shelf.

Reporting by DAC MANH - Translating by TRUC VY