A military helicopter navigates rough weather to deliver supplies and visit soldiers on Vietnam’s Truong Sa Lon Island.
Truong Sa Lon Island, part of Khanh Hoa Province, came into view from the military helicopter. The island is equipped with a port and wharf to accommodate ships transporting supplies, food, and fuel.These images were captured by Regiment 917's delegation during their visit and working trip with officers and soldiers stationed on the island amid stormy weather, with winds reaching levels 5 to 7.Aside from the sea voyages conducted by various units and organizations to the Spratlys, the military frequently undertakes emergency helicopter missions, including night flights through storms and poor weather, to conduct rescue and medical evacuations from the islands to the mainland.From the air, the morning flag-raising ceremony could be seen as the helicopter prepared to land.Units such as the Navy, Border Guard, and Air Defense stood in formation in full uniform. The Vietnamese national flag was solemnly hoisted, fluttering proudly over the open sea. As the national anthem echoed through the ocean winds and crashing waves, a deep sense of patriotism stirred in everyone present.At the island's administrative center stands a stone tablet engraved with Vietnam’s national emblem and the poem “Nam Quoc Son Ha,” known as the country's first declaration of independence. The presence of this monument symbolizes national sovereignty and patriotism.Following a reorganization of administrative units, Khanh Hoa Province now comprises 65 local-level divisions, including 48 communes, 16 wards, and one special district - Truong Sa. This special district encompasses the town of Truong Sa, Song Tu Tay Commune, and Sinh Ton Commune.Truong Sa Lon Island houses a memorial dedicated to fallen soldiers. This site is typically the first stop for visiting delegations who offer incense in remembrance. The monument spans 670 square meters and features a nearly 13-meter-high stone statue, paying solemn tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for Vietnam's maritime sovereignty.At the heart of the island lies a pagoda constructed in traditional Vietnamese architectural style, with gracefully curved tile roofs. A large jade Buddha statue is enshrined in its courtyard. At night, the pagoda is beautifully lit, radiating peace and serenity.Nearby, close to the sovereignty marker, is the Capital Guest House - a gift to the officers, soldiers, and residents of the island. Inaugurated in May 2010, the two-story building features 21 rooms with 50 beds and embodies Hanoi’s architectural style. It serves as accommodation for visiting delegations from the mainland.A Mi-171 helicopter, registration number SAR 04, had just landed on Truong Sa Lon Island. The flight crew gathered for a commemorative photo with officers and soldiers stationed on the island.
Vietnamnet.vn
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