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Since June, many marching contingents have been present in Hanoi for rigorous training, preparing for the A80 mission during the nation's momentous anniversary celebrations. Training sessions are held regularly every day: from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM in the morning and from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the afternoon. Between these intense training sessions, the soldiers have about 20 minutes of rest to recover, lasting approximately one hour each.
"The biggest challenge during training is not only the high demands on techniques, but also the fact that the soldiers have to train intensely for 7 hours every day. In addition, if they feel weak in any area, they will intensify their training in that area in the evening; if they don't train, the time will be dedicated to cultural activities, practicing folk dances, reading newspapers, etc.," shared Mr. Ho Van Hoang, Political Officer of the Men's Militia Company.
The training sessions were held under the sun, each movement requiring intense concentration, with synchronized marching formations, demonstrating strict discipline in every practice session.
Mr. Ho Van Hoang, Political Officer of the Men's Self-Defense Militia Company
Despite the difficulties, the positive encouragement from the people helped the soldiers maintain a great source of morale. Mr. Hoang recounted, "I remember one training session under the scorching sun. After a very tiring workout, an unexpected situation arose, and the Command organized a joint training session at the end of the session. As we were preparing to walk past the stands, I and the soldiers saw a large crowd of people cheering us on. I felt that this support rewarded all the soldiers' efforts; everyone was very happy and fulfilled. Throughout the training process, the affection and encouragement from the people are the most memorable memories."
Dong Van Tam, a soldier from the Men's Self-Defense Militia Company, further shared: "I feel honored and proud to participate in the A80 mission. Along with that are unforgettable emotions about the break times, when the local people came to visit, give gifts, chat, and engage in cultural and artistic exchanges."
These emotions of the soldiers become more apparent during breaks, when they receive bottles of water, participate in cultural exchange activities, or simply chat with the local people.
There were some truly special moments, like when a group of students arrived at the training ground early in the morning to watch the parade and celebrate a birthday with the soldiers.
"This is a joint birthday celebration for the four of us sisters, organized in conjunction with the August birthdays of the soldiers. We're holding this to preserve memories of our youth and to encourage and motivate the soldiers currently participating in the A80 mission," shared Dang Thanh Hai, a representative of the student group.
Recalling unforgettable moments during parade rehearsals, Nguyen Thanh Duy, from the Air Defense - Air Force Officer Training Unit (third from the left), shared: “The time here was quite challenging. The weather was hot, we had to wake up early in the morning, and the training was exhausting. But during rehearsals, we had the support of the local people and the encouragement of our comrades. There were many difficulties, but it was a lot of fun. This will probably be the time I remember most in my life.”
The soldiers' training efforts left a strong impression on the people present at the training ground. Observing the atmosphere at the training ground, Ms. Ngo Thi Thu Yen and her friends traveled over 300 kilometers from Nghe An to Hanoi hoping to watch the entire parade. “We came here from Nghe An, wanting to witness the training atmosphere, filled with national pride and love for our country. As a Vietnamese citizen, I am incredibly proud. Looking at the soldiers, I feel a closeness, like a mother's love for her children. I admire them for their efforts and perseverance in practicing each movement and step precisely to present the most beautiful image during this great national celebration. I had to rearrange my work schedule so many times just to be able to come today, and even in the rain, I was determined to come here at least once.”
Ms. Ngo Thi Thu Yen and her friends traveled over 300 kilometers from Nghe An to Hanoi hoping to watch the entire parade.
"Before leaving, I prepared a scarf, a red flag with a yellow star, and a fan printed with a yellow star to both inspire myself and spread love for my homeland," added Ms. Yen. Ms. Yen's sharing continued the story about the pride and motivation that the people brought to the soldiers. The glances, smiles, and even the moments of taking photos, chatting, and singing with the people during breaks all became memorable memories, helping the soldiers maintain their motivation throughout the training process.
As the grand celebration approaches, every step and movement of the militia is the culmination of countless days of training under the sun and wind. Behind those arduous training sessions lies the pride of participating in this sacred moment for the nation. And it is the support and encouragement of the people that gives them the strength to walk steadily across Ba Dinh Square on the upcoming grand celebration.
Accordingly, the schedule for rehearsals and general rehearsals of the parade is expected to take place at 8 PM on August 21st and 8 PM on August 24th; preliminary rehearsal at 8 PM on August 27th; and general rehearsal at 6:30 AM on August 30th. The official ceremony will begin at 6:30 AM on September 2nd.
