From Hanoi to Truong Sa: a bridge of love connecting mainland and islands

THE HANOI TIMES — In the blazing sunshine of May, as the country celebrated the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the Truong Sa (Spratly) Islands, a special delegation from Hanoi set out on a significant mission called 'For Beloved Truong Sa.'

Over 120 representatives from Hanoi’s departments, districts, enterprises, and media outlets boarded the KN-491 vessel at Cam Ranh International Port. Together, they braved the waves of the East Sea to deliver essential goods and the heartfelt warmth of the capital.

This was not an ordinary visit but the continuation of the strong bond that Hanoi has cultivated with Truong Sa and its island compatriots over 15 years of unwavering affection and responsibility, as well as with the sailors who guard Vietnam’s maritime frontiers.

"Not everyone gets the chance to set foot on Truong Sa," said Le Ngoc Mai, a researcher at the East Sea Institute at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam.

“Seeing the lives of our naval officers and raising the national flag on the island made me feel the meaning of the word 'Fatherland' more profoundly than ever before,” she said.

At each stop – Song Tu Tay, Sinh Ton, Da Thi, Co Lin, and Truong Sa Lon – the delegation offered incense to fallen soldiers, visited the memorial house of President Ho Chi Minh, planted trees, performed music, and presented practical gifts to the stationed units.

The warm handshakes, kind eyes, and heartfelt encouragement made the strongest impression, more so than the material donations. These gestures represent love from the heart of the nation extended to those living and serving on distant front lines.

"There are feelings that can't be put into words," said Phung Phuong Thao, Party Secretary of Hang Trong Ward in Hoan Kiem District. “Truong Sa is not just a name or a place; it is part of our very being. It’s where my heart turns.”

The trip also included a charity auction of five paintings created by Hanoi artists, which raised over VND500 million (US$19,300) to support the people and soldiers of Truong Sa and the DK1 platforms.

From the mainland, it’s difficult to fully grasp the challenges of life on the islands, including scarce supplies, harsh weather, fierce storms, and relentless sunshine. However, it is under these conditions that the spirit of Vietnam’s island defenders shines brightest.

Naval soldiers live humbly but proudly on the rugged reefs and remote outposts. They are not only guardians of the sea, but also teachers, medics, mechanics, and spiritual anchors for the civilians and children living on the islands.

Nguyen Thi Kim Oanh, Chairwoman of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee of Ba Vi District, was especially moved by the schoolchildren on the islands.

"They're so young, yet they already understand the importance of protecting our sovereignty. They study hard, dreaming of contributing to their homeland one day,” she said.

“We brought gifts, but the spirit of those children was the most precious gift we brought back.”

This journey gave the Hanoi delegation a firsthand look at the Navy's silent sacrifices: sleepless nights on guard duty, simple meals, and moments of remembrance for fallen comrades. These experiences created an indelible image of Truong Sa as a courageous, proud, and sacred frontier of the nation.

Building stronger bonds between the rear and the front

One of the highlights of the trip was the inauguration of a new multipurpose community center on Truong Sa Lon Island, sponsored by Hanoi.

The structure is a tangible reflection of Hanoi's enduring commitment to the islands. It is more than just a building; it is a gathering place, a learning space, and a place to lift spirits. It brings island life closer to the mainland.

“I admire the resilience and patriotism of the Truong Sa soldiers,” said Nguyen Thu Huong, Party Secretary of the Business Bloc of Bac Tu Liem District. "Seeing these Hanoi-funded projects fills me with pride. I believe our city will continue to do even more to protect and uplift these communities.”

For 15 years, Hanoi has contributed nearly VND600 billion ($23 million) to building infrastructure and public service facilities across the islands, including schools, clinics, and community centers. Each project reflects deep respect and unwavering solidarity.

Hoang Trong Quyet, a member of the Standing Committee of the Hanoi Party Committee and head of the delegation, said: "We are proud and grateful to those who are quietly safeguarding every inch of our seas and land. Everyone on this journey feels a deep responsibility to honor their sacrifice.”

After the voyage, many delegates expressed their commitment to building bridges between Truong Sa and Hanoi, particularly among the youth. Unforgettable images of the island will live on in their memories: red flags fluttering under open skies, flag-raising ceremonies amid crashing waves, and children’s bright smiles.

Truong Sa is more than just a toponym. It symbolizes Vietnam’s unbreakable spirit and sacred sovereignty. Throughout this journey, the people of Hanoi have reaffirmed that their support from afar is a powerful source of strength for those guarding the edge of the sea.

"As long as we stand united in love and duty, Truong Sa will forever remain in the heart of Hanoi," Quyet affirmed.

Indeed, as the heart of the nation, Hanoi will always reserve a special place in its soul for Truong Sa. Across the waves, Truong Sa will continue to shine, fueled by the unwavering faith and affection sent from the mainland.