A symbol of heroism in the South China Sea.

On January 7, 2025, the 4th Naval Region will have the honor of being awarded the prestigious title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces by the President of Vietnam. This is not only a recognition of the unit's immense contributions over the past nearly 50 years but also a strong affirmation of its determination to protect the sacred sovereignty of the nation's seas and islands.

A nearly 50-year journey for maritime sovereignty.

Established immediately after the country's reunification on October 26, 1975, the 4th Naval Region was tasked with managing a vast sea area from Cu Lao Xanh (Binh Dinh) to Mui Ba Kiem ( Binh Thuan ), including 21 islands of the Truong Sa archipelago.

With its strategically important location in terms of economics, politics , and national defense, this is a sea area that the officers and soldiers of Region 4 always consider sacred and integral to the Fatherland.

For nearly 50 years of development and growth, generations of officers and soldiers of Region 4 have continuously strived, overcoming all difficulties and hardships to firmly protect every inch of the sea and islands of our homeland.

The unit has achieved many outstanding accomplishments, from defending the sovereignty of the Spratly Islands to completing international missions in Cambodia, effectively handling complex situations in the East Sea, and successfully implementing important national defense and security tasks.

Officers and soldiers of the 4th Naval Region. (Source: Vietnam+)

Golden milestones

Amidst the complex developments in the South China Sea, the 4th Naval Region has consistently maintained a high level of combat readiness, conducting reconnaissance and observation, promptly detecting and handling millions of targets at sea, contributing to safeguarding national sovereignty and a peaceful environment for national development.

In addition to fulfilling its national defense duties, Region 4 is also a strong support for fishermen. Over the past 10 years, the unit has rescued more than 6,000 fishermen and assisted nearly 200 fishing vessels in distress, affirming the role of "Uncle Ho's soldiers" in the middle of the ocean.

Vietnamese fisheries patrol vessel. (Source: Vietnam+)

At the same time, programs such as "The Navy as a support for fishermen venturing out to sea," "Greening Truong Sa," and the movement "The whole country for Truong Sa, Truong Sa for the whole country" have contributed to creating a deep bond between the military and the people, building the Truong Sa island district into an increasingly strong and prosperous place.

Expanding the scope of defense diplomacy.

The 4th Naval Region is also a highlight in defense diplomacy. Its participation in international exchanges, exercises, and parades in Russia, China, India, Japan, and other countries has left a positive impression, enhancing the standing of the Vietnam People's Navy on the international stage.

These achievements not only protected our sovereignty early and from afar, but also deepened friendships with international friends.

A well-deserved title.

The title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces is a well-deserved recognition of the extraordinary efforts of the 4th Naval Region. It is also a source of pride and motivation for officers and soldiers to continue to be absolutely loyal to the Party, the Fatherland, and the people, overcoming all challenges and safeguarding every inch of our homeland's islands and seas.

Amidst the complex situation in the East Sea, the 4th Naval Region is committed to continuing to uphold its heroic traditions, innovating, modernizing, and being ready to fight and sacrifice for the ultimate goal: firmly protecting the sacred maritime sovereignty of Vietnam.

This prestigious title is the culmination of the courage, intelligence, and unwavering determination of a resilient collective, continuing the national pride and the aspiration to maintain peace and stability in the East Sea. The 4th Naval Region will forever be a symbol of heroism on the ocean of our Fatherland.