Our delegation arrived in Phu Quoc on a beautiful sunny day, greeted by the salty sea breeze from the open ocean. Our first stop was the temple of national hero Nguyen Trung Truc, whose spirit of resistance still echoes across generations. His legendary words - “Only when the Westerners pull out all the grass of Vietnam will the Vietnamese stop fighting them” - have become a guiding light for naval soldiers stationed here.
These soldiers of the Navy’s Region 5 continue to guard Vietnam’s southwestern sea and sky, carrying forward Nguyen Trung Truc’s indomitable spirit and defending the sacred sovereignty of the nation.
A Rising Pearl of the South
Nguyen Trung Truc Temple on Phu Quoc Island.
Once a remote and little-known island, Phu Quoc played a key strategic role during wartime. After years of hardship, the island has transformed from a poor fishing community into a vibrant tourism hub - the “Pearl of the South.”
Despite its rapid development, Phu Quoc remains a vital frontier island. As Colonel Luc Duc Tien, Deputy Commander of Region 5 Naval Forces, puts it: “Phu Quoc may be thriving, but its role as a frontline defense cannot be forgotten.”
The Sea’s Silent Shield
Sunset on Phu Quoc Island.
Stationed on Phu Quoc, the Navy’s Region 5 Command is at the forefront of safeguarding the southwestern maritime borders. Beyond patrolling and surveillance, these servicemen are a vital support for fishermen, ensuring maritime safety and responding to emergencies.
Their sacrifices often go unnoticed - long patrols, stormy rescues, and constant vigilance against intrusions are part of their silent dedication. Lieutenant Colonel Dang Trieu Binh shares: “We face the waves not just to protect sovereignty, but also the peaceful lives of our people.”
Rescue vessel 924 and ship HQ 526 of Brigade 127 at the Region 5 Naval Base.
Whether rescuing fishing boats in dangerous storms or standing watch day and night, these soldiers remain steadfast. As Lieutenant Nguyen Van Duan, captain of rescue ship 924, says: “Behind every distressed boat are lives waiting for help - and we are always ready, no matter the risk.”
For young soldiers like Private Phan The Duy, pride in serving comes with responsibility: “I may be new here, but I know what it means to be a Navy soldier - it’s about protecting both our waters and our people.”
An Island of Strength and Spirit
Officers and soldiers of the Region 5 Naval Command preparing logistics for a working trip to the southwestern islands.
Today, Phu Quoc is more than a tourist destination - it’s a military stronghold, home to brave soldiers who stand guard over the nation’s seas. And tomorrow, this island will continue to shine, powered by the unwavering spirit of those who protect it.
Author: Vu Thanh Duy
Translated by MINH KIÊN
VNQD