At the training ground of the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion during the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026, the early morning mist still hung low, and the assembly whistle sounded decisively. The reconnaissance soldiers quickly took their positions, their equipment neatly arranged, their eyes focused.

Major Nguyen Thanh Hai, Deputy Battalion Commander of the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion, said: “During Tet, the unit always strictly maintains the combat readiness duty regime, organizes training exercises and drills to ensure that the troops' rhythm is not disrupted. The battalion strengthens patrols, guard duties, and propaganda and education to raise the awareness and vigilance of the troops.”

Soldiers of the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion practice supplementary techniques for capturing enemy targets.

According to Major Nguyen Thanh Hai, the training content selected by the Battalion consisted of high-intensity exercises closely resembling reconnaissance missions. On the mixed obstacle course, each reconnaissance team practiced a series of actions: climbing high walls, crawling low over barbed wire fences, crossing trenches, climbing ropes, and carrying heavy equipment within the allotted time. Despite the chilly late winter weather, sweat still soaked their shirts, and their breathing was rapid, but the formation remained intact and the pace did not slow down.

Corporal Dinh Thanh Hai, a soldier from Company 1, 31st Reconnaissance Battalion, shared: “This is my first Tet away from home, and I miss my family very much, but when I enter training, all my thoughts are focused on the mission. Training with my comrades during the Tet holidays makes us even more aware of our responsibility and honor in participating in maintaining peace for the spring of our country.”

Soldiers of the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion practice rappelling from tall buildings.

In training scenarios for reconnaissance troops, hostage rescue is a difficult task, requiring an element of surprise, secrecy, close coordination within the unit, and skillful individual techniques. Each reconnaissance team must approach the target secretly, subdue the suspect, and ensure the absolute safety of the hostage in the shortest possible time.

Upon responding to the situation, the soldiers quickly mobilized, taking up positions according to the pre-determined plan, without making a fuss, using only hand signals and eye contact. The teams swiftly infiltrated, rescued the hostages, and safely brought them out, subduing the suspect using proper techniques. Immediately afterward, the training officers held an on-site debriefing session, pointing out every detail that needed improvement.

Officers and soldiers of the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion and representatives from their affiliated unit participated in the Tet Banh Chung (traditional Vietnamese rice cake) wrapping competition for the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026, organized by the General Staff of Military Region 3.

Captain Tran Van Tuat, Commander of Detachment 2, 31st Reconnaissance Battalion, stated: “To successfully handle hostage rescue situations, reconnaissance officers must be highly skilled in their profession, possess strong character and willpower, be perceptive, observant, able to accurately assess the situation, and proficient in the use of various weapons and equipment. We require every action to be precise, and every step of coordination to be seamless, because in reality, there is no room for error.”

Alongside daytime training, the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion organized nighttime training, combining training with combat readiness duty. Under limited lighting conditions, reconnaissance teams practiced approaching targets, overcoming obstacles, and handling situations in confined spaces. This is crucial training, helping soldiers hone their observation skills, judgment, and maintain composure in challenging environments.

Soldiers of the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion play the stick-pushing game during the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026.

Despite the high-intensity training, safety was always the top priority. Before each training session, the commander of the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion thoroughly inspected weapons, equipment, and training facilities. Training officers meticulously explained safety rules and assigned personnel to closely monitor each aspect of the training. As a result, the unit maintained continuous training during the Tet holiday while ensuring absolute safety.

Besides training duties, the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion also focuses on caring for the soldiers' morale. New Year celebrations are organized thoughtfully and warmly. After training hours, officers and soldiers in the unit gather together, sharing stories about their hometowns and families, creating a close and united atmosphere.

Officers and soldiers of the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion gathered to celebrate New Year's Eve at their unit.

Being present at the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion during the Tet holiday, we clearly felt the spirit of "enjoying the new year without forgetting our duty" among the reconnaissance soldiers. Whether it was the first day of the year or a normal day, the training rhythm was maintained seriously; every exercise, every situation was carried out by officers and soldiers with the highest sense of responsibility.

Being on duty during Tet at the unit was a great effort, a high level of determination, and also brought many beautiful memories. This was also an opportunity to test and affirm the combat readiness and skills of the officers and soldiers of the 31st Reconnaissance Battalion, from physical fitness and individual techniques to the ability to coordinate in groups, all showing significant improvements.

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/quoc-phong-an-ninh/xay-dung-quan-doi/linh-trinh-sat-ron-rang-chao-xuan-moi-1026847