Proud soldiers of the "square star" emblem.

On March 28, 2026, the Vietnam Militia and Self-Defense Force celebrated its 91st anniversary (March 28, 1935 - March 28, 2026). Throughout its development and growth, the force has always been loved and affectionately called by the people: the "square star" soldiers. In An Giang, these "square stars" have steadfastly contributed to maintaining political stability, ensuring social order and safety, and actively participating in the socio-economic development of the locality.

At Hang Tien Port (Kien Luong commune, An Giang province), the Permanent Militia Squadron's ship has just docked after a long journey at sea. Immediately after docking, the soldiers promptly checked their equipment and maintained a high state of combat readiness.

With a sense of responsibility and pride in the "square star" emblem, each soldier strives to protect sovereignty , support fishermen, actively promote awareness against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and is ready to provide search and rescue in any situation.

The An Giang Provincial Permanent Militia Fleet's vessel is preparing for a sea voyage.

A highlight in the development of An Giang's militia and self-defense forces is the Permanent Militia Naval Squadron, established in 2021 (when it was still part of Kien Giang province) - one of the early models implemented according to the Ministry of National Defense 's plan.

Major General Nguyen Van Ngành, member of the Standing Committee of the Provincial Party Committee and Commander of the An Giang Provincial Military Command, said: "In recent times, the province has focused on improving the quality of building and training for the Permanent Militia Naval Squadron, from basic to advanced content such as physical fitness, swimming, and skills for long-term operations at sea."

The squadron regularly coordinates with forces such as the Navy and Coast Guard to organize training and patrols in key areas; conducts awareness campaigns against IUU fishing; supports fishermen in staying at sea safely; and promptly rescues and tows fishing vessels in distress. The squadron is also a reliable support for fishermen whenever they venture out to sea.

Growing green vegetables to serve meals on board the Permanent Militia Fleet's ships during their operations at sea.

An Giang has a unique geographical location in the Southwest region, with both a land border adjacent to Cambodia and a maritime area. This creates favorable conditions for socio-economic development while also placing high demands on national defense and security. In response to these demands, the militia and self-defense forces are built on the principle of being "strong and widespread," closely adhering to local conditions and organizing themselves flexibly to suit each area.

The militia forces of An Giang province review their ranks.

Militia forces of An Giang province participate in training.

Along the land border, permanent militia checkpoints have proven remarkably effective. These "living markers," alongside border guards and police forces, remain stationed in the area, closely monitoring the border region and promptly detecting and preventing violations such as smuggling and illegal immigration. Despite difficult living conditions, officers and soldiers uphold a high sense of responsibility, staying close to the people and the local area, proactively handling situations at the grassroots level.

Besides maintaining security and order, the militia forces also actively participate in socio-economic development, disaster prevention, and disease control. The image of militia soldiers helping people reinforce dikes, harvest crops, and rebuild houses after storms has become familiar.

Militia soldiers in An Giang province contributed their labor to build solidarity houses for the people.

Following the implementation of the two-tiered local government model, the militia and self-defense forces continue to play an important role in training, drills, coordinating with the police to maintain security and order, and actively participating in labor, production, and socio-economic development at the grassroots level.

At the Military Command of Binh Giang commune, militia soldier Bui Pham Cam shared: "When the people need us, we are always ready to be there, contributing to helping them stabilize their lives." Meanwhile, soldier Ngo Hoang Phuc said: "Proud to be a soldier with a square star, I participate in local work while developing my family's economy, contributing to building my homeland."

From land borders to the sea, from frontline militia outposts to ships sailing the open ocean, the soldiers of An Giang province, bearing the "square star" insignia, continue to silently dedicate themselves to their work. Their perseverance, responsibility, and close connection with the people have contributed and continue to contribute to maintaining peace in their homeland.

TRUC LINH

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/tu-hao-chien-si-sao-vuong--a480982.html