Tet of Vietnamese peacekeepers in Bentiu

On the first day of the Lunar New Year, the leadership of L2FH Rotation 7 visited hospital wards to extend greetings and present traditional red "li xi" envelopes (lucky money) to patients. The sight of U.N. peacekeepers in uniform offering lucky money and sharing Vietnamese customs at hospital bedsides provided a moving message of hope and recovery.

Member of Level-two Field Hospital Rotation 7 extends Tet greetings and presents lucky envelopes to patient.

Captain Phan Van Hau, Head of the Surgery Department, also joined the initiative, bringing warmth to a facility still facing many hardships. Alongside patient visits, the Board of Directors of L2FH Rotation 7 encouraged emergency teams, quick reaction forces, and security personnel remaining on duty throughout the holiday.

Staff of L2FH Rotation 7 present notebooks, school supplies and Vietnamese flags to students and teachers in Bentiu.

In a Civil-Military Coordination (CIMIC) activity at a primary school within an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) area, the unit delivered over 200 gifts, including school supplies and clothing. A painting contest allowed children to express their dreams of sturdy homes and education, with many drawings featuring the Vietnamese flag as a symbol of gratitude toward the military medical personnel. Peacekeepers also taught students to fly kites bearing the Vietnamese flag, filling the schoolyard with laughter. A friendly football match further fostered bonds, transcending barriers of geography and language.

A painting contest for local students

A highlight of the mission was a handicraft class held under the schoolyard trees. Staff of L2FH Rotation 7 guided local teachers, students, and women in creating products from native plants. This initiative reflected Vietnam’s humanitarian approach: moving beyond immediate aid to enhance community capacity and sustainable development.

A friendly football match between Vietnamese “blue-beret” soldiers and the school’s teachers and students.

A handicraft class organized by L2FH Rotation 7.

These activities affirmed Vietnam’s national identity in a multinational environment, portraying "Uncle Ho’s Soldiers" as both professional and compassionate. 

Vietnamese peacekeepers and local students fly kites together.

While Tet in Bentiu lacked fireworks and family feasts, it was illuminated by the shared hope and firm handshakes of those dedicated to international peace. Through these practical actions, L2FH Rotation 7 demonstrated Vietnam’s commitment to nurturing global stability.

Translated by Trung Thanh