I was born and raised in Dan Phu village (Ham Kiem commune, Lam Dong province) - a peaceful rural area, closely associated with rice fields and hardworking people. My childhood offered few opportunities to travel far, so for me, every journey held special meaning. At the age of 18, I had the honor of entering the military, where I met comrades from all over the country, and where I was trained, learned, and matured day by day at the Signal Officer School.

I am truly moved and proud to be a member of Delegation No. 4, comprising officers and students from military schools and several agencies of the Ministry of National Defense , visiting and encouraging the military and civilians in the Truong Sa Special Zone and the DK1 platform. This is a sacred milestone, an invaluable experience that many people may only dream of experiencing once in their lifetime.

Sergeant Chau Dan Huy, cadet of the 30th Battalion, Signal Officer School. Photo: Provided by the subject.

From the moment I stepped onto the ship, the words echoed in my mind: "Truong Sa is so beautiful! Truong Sa makes people love their country more, and understand more about the silent sacrifices of the naval soldiers." Those words ignited a flame of eagerness within me, urging me to see and feel it with my own eyes and my whole heart.

Ship 571 (411th Squadron, 955th Brigade, 4th Naval Region) cut through the waves, carrying us out to the open sea. In the vast expanse of the ocean, I felt incredibly small. All around me was only the blue sea, the golden sun, and the distant horizon. Gone were the familiar sounds of the land, replaced by the gentle lapping of waves against the ship's hull and the incessant sea breeze. It was at that moment that I began to realize sacred feelings I had never experienced before.

After more than a day at sea, we were overwhelmed with joy when we set foot on our first destination - the beautiful Song Tu Tay Island. We were greeted by crystal-clear waters and brilliant sunshine stretching across pristine white coral beaches.

Soldiers stand guard at the sovereignty marker on Song Tu Tay Island. Photo: DUY HIEN

Walking along the tree-lined paths of the island, I was particularly impressed by the smiles of the Navy soldiers. Their sun-tanned faces exuded resilience, yet were also incredibly approachable and warm. Enthralled by the playful laughter of the island's children, I suddenly realized that even in this harsh, windswept place, there is always the vibrant sound of life, of songs and melodies. Truong Sa is not as unfamiliar and desolate as I had imagined.

Out in the vast ocean, hundreds of nautical miles from the mainland, there are still resilient people holding their ground. Despite countless challenges, they maintain their optimistic spirit, steadfastly holding their weapons, day and night protecting the sacred sovereignty of the Fatherland's seas and islands.

Soldiers and civilians on Song Tu Tay Island gathered at the harbor to greet and see off the delegation. Photo: DUY HIEN

Concluding our memorable moments on Song Tu Tay Island, we reluctantly boarded the boat to return to the ship, waving goodbye to the frontier island to continue our voyage. The ship once again cut through the waves, successively taking the delegation to islands and islets: Son Ca, Da Thi, Sinh Ton Dong, Len Dao, Da Tay B, Truong Sa, and the DK1/17 (Phuc Tan) platform.

Previously, I had learned about, heard propaganda about, and seen many images and documents about the sea and islands. But truly, only when I witnessed, listened to, and felt it with my own heart did I fully understand the pride of the name "Truong Sa".

The Academy of Signal Officers participated in and supported a cultural performance program on Truong Sa Island. Photo: DUY HIEN

Delegation No. 4 and the military and civilians of Truong Sa Island held a cultural exchange. Photo: DUY HIEN

Students whose essays won prizes in the "Journey of Emotions" contest received souvenirs from the organizers. Photo: DUY HIEN

This journey has further fueled my desire to contribute. As a trainee in the military, I vow to continuously strive and study under the glorious banner of the Party, so that I may soon become an outstanding officer. That will be the most practical way for me to contribute my small part to the cause of firmly protecting the Fatherland, so that the country may develop further, and the people may enjoy prosperity and happiness.

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/van-hoa/doi-song/bai-hoc-ve-tinh-yeu-to-quoc-tu-truong-sa-1038954