Truong Cong Chieu was born into a family with a tradition in the field of art. Chieu's father is artist Truong Cong Chien, who plays traditional musical instruments and currently works at the Quang Ninh Art Troupe. Inheriting his father's artistic talent, when he was young, Chieu was passionate about learning and playing the flute. By grade 5, Chieu knew how to play many types of flutes.

Recognizing his son's passion and talent, in 6th grade, Chieu's father let him study traditional musical instruments and occasionally participated in performing arts with him. In 2015, after graduating from high school, Chieu passed the entrance exam to the Faculty of Traditional Musical Instruments, Ha Long University (Quang Ninh).

With his talent, ability and knowledge, Chieu is often selected to participate in many music and mass art programs. In addition to playing the flute, Chieu can also play a number of musical instruments such as the monochord, guitar, etc. Chieu has won many awards at mass art performances and competitions organized by schools and localities. Notably, in 2020, Chieu won first prize in the Quang Ninh province's young talent competition. In September 2021, Chieu graduated with honors and joined the Quang Ninh Art Troupe.

Private Truong Cong Chieu shows his passion for the flute.

In early 2022, realizing his responsibility to the Fatherland, with the encouragement of his family, Chieu enlisted and performed his duties at Division 363. Knowing Chieu's strengths, the unit commander assigned him to be in charge of the unit's cultural and artistic activities. Since joining the army, in cultural and artistic activities, especially the unit's exchanges, seminars, competitions, and performances, Chieu has always participated wholeheartedly with flute solo performances, contributing to improving the cultural and spiritual life of officers and soldiers. Truong Cong Chieu shared: "Among the traditional musical instruments, I have a great passion for the bamboo flute because it is a simple and popular musical instrument with sounds that easily attract people. After completing my military service, I hope to continue my father's tradition and work in the field of art...".

Commenting on Truong Cong Chieu, Second Lieutenant Nguyen Cao Quy, Political Commissar of Company 10 said: "Private First Class Truong Cong Chieu is a soldier who is always proactive and positive in studying and training, exemplary in taking the lead in the unit's activities; ready to receive and complete well all assigned tasks."

Article and photos: CAO THANH DONG