Dien Bien launches 500-day campaign to identify martyrs through DNA testing

The cemetery contains 896 martyrs’ graves, including one grave without remains. The soldiers were killed during the Dien Bien Phu Campaign and the resistance war against the French colonialists. Their remains were recovered and buried between 1957 and 1958. The cemetery was last renovated in 2017 and underwent additional restoration work, including stone cladding of all graves, from December 2023 to January 2024. 

Members of the Steering Committee and the specialized team offering incense at the memorial monument and martyrs’ graves before commencing excavation work

The campaign faces significant challenges due to differences in grave construction over the years. Many graves contain ceramic or brick burial containers, while some have shifted over time. Frequent rainfall has also complicated excavation efforts and the collection of bone samples. 

During a visit to personnel participating in the campaign, Senior Colonel Trinh Duc Thiem, Commanding Officer of the Dien Bien Provincial Military Command, praised their dedication and sense of responsibility. He emphasized that despite difficult weather conditions and the complex structure of the graves, officers and soldiers should overcome challenges and remain committed to completing the mission.

The specialized team conducting underground excavation to collect bone samples

According to Thiem, the effort to identify martyrs’ remains is not only an important political task, but also a meaningful act of gratitude toward those who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s independence and freedom. He said the campaign reflects the Vietnamese tradition of honoring those who made sacrifices for the country and helps restore the names, hometowns, and family connections of the fallen.

On June 17 alone, the team collected nine biological samples for DNA testing.

Sr. Col. Trinh Duc Thiem, Commanding Officer of the Dien Bien provincial Military Command, presenting gifts to encourage the specialized team participating in the 500-day campaign

Translated by Tran Hoai