On the morning of December 19, 2023, officials from Ho Chi Minh City paid heartfelt visits to the families of fallen soldiers as part of commemorations for the upcoming 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People's Army, celebrated on December 22, 2024.
The delegation was led by Nguyễn Phước Lộc, the Deputy Secretary of the City Party Committee and the Chairman of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee, along with Major General Trần Văn Trai, the Deputy Commander of the City Military Command. They visited several families of soldiers who sacrificed their lives during military training exercises.
This poignant visit took place primarily in Bình Thuận Province, where the team aimed to honor the memories and sacrifices of soldiers from Tiểu đoàn 17, Sư đoàn 5 of the 7th Military Region. Among the soldiers honored were Nguyễn Trọng Hòa, Nguyễn Hồ Gia Huy, Võ Thanh Hiếu, Thông Minh Kiệt, Bùi Hy Lạp, and Phạm Ngọc Hiếu, who lost their lives during defensive combat exercises.
At the residences of these families, the delegation expressed their condolences and shared supportive sentiments with the relatives, who are facing the heavy burden of loss. "The Party, State, Military, and people always commemorate the contributions and sacrifices of the fallen soldiers," stated Nguyễn Phước Lộc, acknowledging the deep sense of gratitude felt for these brave individuals.
The visits also included solemn memorial rituals wherein officials lit incense to honor the deceased. After expressing their condolences, Lộc encouraged the families to remain resilient and promised continued support. He said, "I hope the families can overcome this loss and stabilize their lives,” highlighting his commitment to their well-being.
The delegation's activities were more than mere formality; they demonstrated the city's dedication to its citizens, particularly during these difficult times. The support included financial assistance aimed at easing the family's hardships as they navigate life after such overwhelming loss.
Among those visited was the family of Bùi Hy Lạp from La Gi town, who received heartfelt words from Lộc and his colleagues. Here, he reiterated the importance of community support during trying times, offering reassurance and care from the city’s administration.
At each stop, the atmosphere was filled with emotions as families reflected on the sacrifices of their loved ones. The delegation listened intently to their stories, acknowledging their pain and resolve. The visit not only provided financial support but also served as a powerful reminder of the city's commitment to honor the memories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
This outreach reflects broader policies of the Vietnam government concerning its military personnel and their families, ensuring they receive the recognition and assistance they deserve. It’s part of the city’s mission to reinforce relationships and support systems within the community.
The holistic approach involves thanking local leaders for their roles and encouraging continued care for the families of soldiers, especially those who have passed on during duty. This approach helps create community resilience and support networks for the mourning families.
Leaders from the local level were also involved, which added another layer of community backing to the efforts of Ho Chi Minh City bureaucrats. Their presence signified the interconnectedness of state and community gestures of support.
Moving forward, the city intends to continue these initiatives, emphasizing the narrative of gratitude and remembrance. The efforts underline not just the tragedy of loss but also the hope for recovery and resilience among the families of the fallen soldiers.
Reflecting on the overarching theme of these visits, one can recognize the importance of solidarity and support, especially in times of bereavement. The collective sentiment around these soldiers' sacrifices strengthens the bond between the military and the civilians they protect.
This initiative stands as part of broader national efforts to honor military personnel, ensuring their sacrifices are woven deeply within the fabric of Vietnamese society, where appreciation and remembrance live on through the acts of love and care extended to their families.
