On the evening of June 4, hundreds of officers and soldiers from Military Region 7 boarded a northbound train from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi to begin preparations for the grand military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and Vietnam’s National Day on September 2.

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This unit had previously fulfilled their duties with excellence during the April 30 celebrations and now embarks on a new training phase for Operation A80. The participants include contingents of southern female guerrilla fighters, female commando officers, and male airborne special forces.
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At the station, many soldiers took the opportunity to talk with their families and capture memorable farewell moments.
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Before departure, Anh Thu from the female commando contingent became emotional while saying goodbye to her family. Her mother tearfully said, “Stay strong, follow military discipline, and fulfill your duties. We are so proud of you.”
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Trinh Hoang Khanh Van, an 18-year-old from the female guerrilla unit, expressed her wish for her family to be present in Hanoi on September 2 so they could all share in the national pride of the celebration.
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On her first official mission to Hanoi, 22-year-old Nguyen Thi Cam Tu from Hoc Mon District couldn’t hold back tears after a phone call home. “We’ll do our best to train hard and push our limits to honor the trust of the nation and our community,” she said.
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Their gear included personal belongings and issued supplies for the journey. Official parade uniforms will be distributed upon arrival in Hanoi.
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Before departure, officers carefully checked equipment and logistics. During the journey, units are expected to manage personnel closely, ensure meals and hygiene, and maintain food safety. Reception and road transfers at destination stations must be well-coordinated, safe, and punctual.
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The female commando contingent smiled brightly before the 36-hour journey. This marks the second time they have been selected for this special mission - an honor few experience in their military careers.
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Soldiers took photos through the train windows before it departed the station.
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The unit is expected to arrive in Hanoi on June 6 and will immediately begin intensive training. According to the plan, training will take place at National Military Training Center 4 and the Army Officer Training School No. 1 before the official military parade at Ba Dinh Square on National Day, September 2.

Nguyen Hue