Truong Sa – a beloved homeland deeply etched in the hearts of every Vietnamese person, a place they yearn to visit at least once. In this place at the forefront of the waves and winds, the resilient soldiers of the islands overcome hardships, uniting to protect the sovereignty of the nation's seas and skies.
A sturdy barrier at the forefront of the waves.
The journey across the waves took the delegation aboard the ship HQ 571 to Truong Sa on sunny days. The first island we set foot on was Song Tu Tay Island - a sturdy bulwark at the forefront of the waves. From afar, the island appeared like a miniature green forest rising from the ocean.
The green of the vegetation blends with the deep blue of the sea, creating an unusually peaceful scene. The abundant brackish water on the island is convenient for daily life and irrigation. The sea generously bestows its sweet taste, soothing the harshness of the sun and wind. Not only is it distinguished by its lush green vegetation and sturdy structures, Song Tu Tay also proudly stands tall with its lighthouse, a symbol guiding the way across the East Sea.
Over the years, the material and spiritual lives on the island have been steadily improving. A spacious stadium, a sound system for cultural performances, and modern FM and satellite broadcasting stations help officers and soldiers stay updated on information, giving them peace of mind and confidence in protecting the islands and seas.
Mr. Lai Minh Tan, an officer from the Department of Grassroots Culture, Family and Libraries, was moved: "This is my first time going to Truong Sa and also my first time visiting Song Tu Tay. My heart raced as I stepped onto the pier. The warm smiles and resolute eyes of the soldiers on the island who welcomed me brought tears to my eyes."
I can't help but feel emotional thinking about the days when the soldiers bravely held their ground, guarding our sovereignty amidst the harshness of nature. Under the shade of trees on the small paths, I clearly feel the vibrant life of this place.
Amidst the vast ocean, life is simple yet brimming with passion; the green vegetable gardens and rows of closely spaced trees are cultivated by the hands of soldiers. Every square-leaved banyan tree, every wave, every stone here is imbued with sweat, effort, and love for the homeland.
Lieutenant Colonel Pham Van Dong, tank assistant on Song Tu Tay Island, shared: "Far from the image of an island with only sun and white sand, Song Tu Tay today is adorned with a refreshing green color, full of vitality. The houses, cultural center, infirmary, school, and Song Tu Tay pagoda are spacious and sturdy, creating a stable living and working environment for the soldiers and civilians on the island."
Amidst the vast ocean, Song Tu Tay is like a miniature homeland, warm and tranquil. The sacred flag-raising ceremonies under the dawn light, the resounding school drums, the prayers for peace echoing from the temple roof – all blend together to create a peaceful yet vibrant rhythm of life.
Here, children are born and raised amidst the ocean, and soldiers take turns protecting every inch of sacred land. Today, Song Tu Tay is also an important rescue and relief point for fishermen in Central Vietnam. Naval forces, fisheries inspectors, and coast guard are always on duty, ready to fight and support fishermen in their traditional fishing grounds. The fishing port and harbor have been invested in and built to provide favorable conditions for ships to take shelter from storms and resupply.
Lieutenant Colonel Vu Manh Hai, Commander of Song Tu Tay Island, affirmed: "Song Tu Tay is a sacred part of the Fatherland, a vivid symbol of patriotism and the unwavering will of our soldiers and people to defend the sea and islands."
The natural beauty combined with its strategic significance for national defense and security makes Song Tu Tay one of the most important islands in the Truong Sa archipelago, holding a frontline position in protecting maritime sovereignty. Amidst countless storms, the island still stands tall, shining like an immortal lighthouse in the vast East Sea, affirming sovereignty and igniting national pride.
A resilient shield in the South China Sea
If Song Tu Tay is likened to a "sturdy bulwark at the forefront of the waves," then Sinh Ton Island is known as a "resilient shield in the East Sea." Sinh Ton Island is located in the northern part of the Truong Sa archipelago. Besides military units, the island also has residential households and civil, cultural, and spiritual structures such as schools, cultural centers, temples, and meteorological and hydrological stations.
Sinh Ton Island is one of the first five islands of the Truong Sa archipelago to be liberated on April 28, 1975. Since then, countless generations of officers and soldiers from all over the country have continued to carry out the sacred task of defending the island and developing it into an increasingly prosperous and beautiful place.
Lieutenant Colonel Pham Sy Thoai, Commander of Sinh Ton Island, affirmed: "Sinh Ton Island holds an important position in the Truong Sa archipelago, acting as a shield and an outpost in the vast East Sea."
Stationed far from the mainland, operating independently and constantly facing complex situations at sea, we always strictly adhere to and maintain a state of combat readiness. The officers, soldiers, and people on the island firmly believe that Sinh Ton will endure forever, steadfastly protecting the sacred sea and airspace of the Fatherland."
Over the years, with the attention of the Party and the people of the whole country, along with the tireless efforts of the military and people on the island, Sinh Ton has achieved many proud accomplishments.
Officers and soldiers consistently maintain strict control over targets and effectively provide healthcare for both military personnel and civilians. Emphasis is placed on political and ideological education, ensuring that 100% of officers, soldiers, and civilians on the island possess high determination and are ready to fulfill all assigned tasks.
Lieutenant Vu Ba Quan, 146th Brigade, 4th Naval Region, stated: "All activities on the island are closely and effectively coordinated. With the spirit of 'The island is our home, the sea is our homeland,' the military and civilians on the island always unite, overcome all hardships, remain vigilant and ready to fight, and successfully complete all tasks."
Ms. Pham Thi My Dieu, a resident of the island, shared: "Here, we live in sturdy houses equipped with basic amenities. Life is still difficult, but it is always full of solidarity and optimism."
Our children are studying at Sinh Ton Primary School, a small school but filled with the love and care of its teachers. We always believe in fostering a spirit of unity, working together to build a prosperous and happy life, and contributing to affirming and protecting the sacred sovereignty of our nation's seas and islands."
With its achievements, Sinh Ton Island was honored to receive the Second and Third Class Military Merit Orders from the President of Vietnam , and for many consecutive years has been recognized as a victorious unit, along with many collectives and individuals who have been commended for outstanding performance of their duties.
(To be continued)
Source: https://baovanhoa.vn/chinh-polit/bai-1-bien-dao-la-que-huong-137217.html
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