In that context, the unit placed special emphasis on ideological work, maintaining stability and determination among the troops at the forefront.

Ideological activities on Truong Sa Island.

According to Captain Dang Huu Xanh, Commander of Company 3, the commanding officer of the working group on Truong Sa Island: “We determined that preparing the troops mentally before going to the island is the most important factor. When they understand their mission, the troops will proactively overcome difficulties and not be passive in the face of new conditions.” In reality, 100% of officers and soldiers strictly abide by the laws of the State, military discipline, and regulations of the unit and the island. However, for young soldiers who are on their first long-term assignment far from the mainland, a feeling of unfamiliarity is unavoidable. Soldier Nguyen Cong Thanh, Company 2, shared: “When I first arrived on the island, I was shocked by the weather – scorching sun followed by erratic heavy rain. Life was completely different from the mainland. But with the encouragement and guidance of officers and comrades, I gradually adapted and felt I had matured a lot.”

Major Ho Dinh Dung, Company Commander of Company 2 and Head of the operational framework on Nam Yet Island, believes that in conditions far from the unit, the role of officers becomes even more important. The actions of officers are unspoken commands. If officers are exemplary, approachable, and share with the soldiers, their morale will be stable, and the collective will be united. Following the motto "eat together, live together, work together," the operational framework officers directly participate in labor and daily life with the soldiers; strictly maintain ideological meetings; and organize cultural, artistic, and sports activities suitable to the conditions on the island. The unit also maintains a model of psychological counseling teams and team-building groups; proactively coordinates with soldiers' families to monitor the situation remotely and promptly resolve any arising issues.

Officers and soldiers of the 1st Engineering Battalion participate in ideological activities on Truong Sa Island.

Outside of working hours, collective activities, cultural exchanges, and sports events are regularly held. New Year's Eve may not have fireworks, but it's filled with singing. On occasions when relatives visit the island, even without their own family members present, many soldiers are still moved as if they were reunited with their own family.

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Van Quy, Political Officer of the 1st Engineering Battalion, affirmed: “We believe that firmly grasping and effectively managing the soldiers' morale is an effective command method. When each soldier has stable morale, the unit will be highly united and cohesive, capable of successfully completing its mission.” In the coming time, the 1st Engineering Battalion will continue to improve the quality of ideological work according to the regulations and guidelines of the superiors; promote the role of platoon and company officers—those closest to the soldiers; strengthen thematic activities on traditions; and ensure good benefits and policies for soldiers serving long periods on the islands.

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/nuoi-duong-van-hoa-bo-doi-cu-ho/giu-vung-tran-dia-tu-tuong-noi-dao-tien-tieu-1029363