As a member of the M'nong ethnic group, born and raised in the sun-drenched Central Highlands, Lieutenant Colonel Thi Trinh not only excels in her duties as an "artist in military uniform" but also diligently preserves and spreads local cultural values. Within the grassroots cultural propaganda team, she is a core member, capable of undertaking many roles such as singing, dancing, acting, and hosting programs. In each role, she demonstrates meticulousness, seriousness, and an unceasing spirit of creativity.

Ms. Trinh and her husband and two children. Photo provided by the subject.

For Ms. Trinh, art only truly has meaning when it touches the hearts of the audience. Therefore, before each outreach trip, she and her teammates diligently practice, exchange ideas, and refine every detail, so that each time she stands on stage, the cultural identity of the Central Highlands is vividly and intimately conveyed to the people in this border region of the country.

Trinh's passion for art began very early. In 9th grade, when soldiers came to her school to recruit members for the Cultural Propaganda Team, she boldly applied, carrying a burning passion in her heart. After two rounds of singing and performing, the petite girl made a strong impression with her clear voice and confident, captivating performance style. Among dozens of contestants, Trinh excelled and became one of the three chosen. From that milestone, her path to becoming an artist and soldier opened up with much hope and belief. During her time working at the Dak Nong Provincial Military Command (now the Lam Dong Provincial Military Command), Trinh met and fell in love with Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thanh Duy, a musician in the grassroots Cultural Propaganda Team. After more than four years of getting to know each other, their love blossomed into a warm home filled with sharing and responsibility.

Duy was born in Thai Binh province (now part of Hung Yen province) and later moved with his family to Dak Lak. Upon reaching adulthood, he enlisted in the military . His love for the military grew within him, becoming a long-term commitment. Showing early musical talent, he received attention from his unit commander, who facilitated his professional studies at the Military University of Culture and Arts. After completing his training, he returned to the Central Highlands, his second home, to continue contributing to the development of cultural life within the military and among the people.

For Ms. Trinh, Mr. Duy's companionship is not only love but also a solid professional support. He patiently guides his wife through each musical note, instructing her on how to convey emotions through each lyric and movement on stage. From a simple, instinctive voice, Ms. Trinh gradually honed her skills to become more professional, meeting the artistic requirements of her unit and touching the hearts of listeners. During their joint work trips, Mr. Duy always takes care of her meals and sleep so that she maintains the best health and spirit for her performances. And when Ms. Trinh goes on long performance tours, he quietly steps back, managing the household and taking care of their two young children, so that his wife can focus on fulfilling her assigned duties.

The longest period of separation from her family was during the months Trinh participated in the A50 and A80 parades. Each time she left home for more than three months, far from her husband and children, the longing and worry silently accumulated. But it was Duy's simple yet sincere encouragement that became a solid source of emotional support for her. "Just focus on training, I'll take care of the children and wait for you to come home." These simple words from Duy gave her the strength to overcome the stressful training sessions and the long, sleepless nights filled with homesickness.

Amidst the solemn parade on the nation's grand celebration, accompanied by stirring music and the proud gaze of the people, Lieutenant Colonel Thi Trinh shone not only with the demeanor of a female soldier but also with her unwavering belief that behind her there is always a warm support system, ready to share and accompany her on every step of her journey of dedication.

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/quoc-phong-an-ninh/xay-dung-quan-doi/chung-mot-tinh-yeu-1019811