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A view of the Guards-of-Honor |
By just 8 a.m., the uniform of soldier Ta Cong Hoan of Squad 7, Platoon 2 of the Guards-of-Honor team, had already been soaked in sweat. Despite the sweltering sun which drained physical strength very quickly, Hoan and his comrades diligently and excellently executed each movement, from standing at attention, holding their feet and hands in still position, to marching, for hours.
Their daily training schedule consists of two sessions: In the morning from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and in the afternoon from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Hanoi's harsh summer weather with intense sunlight and dry air is truly challenging to soldiers, requiring their unwavering determination and mental resilience.
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Daily practice of holding feet and hands in position demands troops’ perseverance. |
Hoan and his comrades have to precisely practice each footwork and hand movement, marching and even standing at attention which he considers the most difficult. After each parade training session, they continue with physical training to strengthen their fitness. With good foundation built from his assignment to the Guards-of-Honor team right after enlistment and three months of training and his honor and pride of being engaged in the grand parade, Hoan demonstrated his strong determination to fulfill this important task.
For soldier Vy Van Long from Squad 3 of Platoon 1, Mission A80 presents a challenge, especially for new recruits like him. He recalled that it took him about two to three weeks just to master the feet-holding in position. To maintain strength for the mission performance, Long has to practice running, push-ups, and core exercises daily as well. After main sessions, Long and his comrades also help one another in order to refine their movements.
According to Senior Captain Nguyen Van Dong, Political Officer of the Guards-of-Honor team, to complete all routine, unscheduled tasks and especially Mission A80 with excellence, all members of Unit 275 have strictly embraced and realized higher-level resolutions, directions, and instructions. Guided by the motto “The unit is our home, and we are all brothers,” the officers and soldiers of the Guards-of-Honor team remain united and determined.
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For many soldiers, standing at attention is the most difficult exercise. |
Though many among 56 members of the team assigned to Mission A80 are newly enlisted in 2025, they all show unwavering spirit, strong will, and discipline to ensure the mission a success, shining the image of soldiers of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Command.
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Standing at attention under the sun requires troops’ mental toughness, strong will, and physical endurance. |
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Guards-of-Honor in training |
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By 8 a.m., many soldiers' uniforms have already been soaked with sweat. |
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Every soldier feels honored and proud to take on Mission A80. |
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Correcting movements for recruits |
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The Guards-of-Honor during the first joint rehearsal with armed forces for the grand parade |
Translated by Mai Huong