Before departure in Cam Ranh, delegates attended an incense-offering ceremony at the Gac Ma Soldiers Monument and Linh Nguyen Pagoda, paying tribute to fallen heroes.

Mission No. 8 comprised more than 200 delegates from provinces and cities, central agencies and businesses nationwide. During the voyage, the delegation visited soldiers and residents on Song Tu Tay, Son Ca, Nam Yet, Da Lon (B), Sinh Ton, Truong Sa Dong and Truong Sa islands, as well as the DK1/16 (Phuc Tan) platform.

At each stop, delegates were briefed on task performance and living conditions, and witnessed first-hand the persistence, resilience and combat readiness of officers and soldiers stationed on the frontline.

On the occasion, Mission No. 8 presented gifts worth more than 7.6 billion VND (288,502 USD), including essential equipment and supplies such as televisions, water purifiers, solar-powered lighting, food and production models.

Son La province also delivered contributions, including 500 million VND to build two vegetable gardens on the islands, three sets of solar lights for each stop, one television for Ship 571, and 50 million VND in support for Brigade 955.

The donations underscored the support and responsibility of Son La’s Party organisation, authorities and people toward soldiers and residents on remote islands.

The delegation also took part in a solemn flag-raising ceremony on Truong Sa island. Delegates offered incense in remembrance of President Ho Chi Minh and at pagodas on the island, expressing reverence and a shared commitment to the homeland.

Cultural, artistic, sports and maritime-themed activities were held in a lively atmosphere, fostering camaraderie and unity. Notably, a cultural exchange night on Truong Sa island left a lasting impression, as performances from the mainland resonated with life on the remote outpost, strengthening ties between soldiers and civilians.

The mission successfully fulfilled its full agenda, ensuring absolute safety and leaving a lasting impact, reinforcing a shared sense of responsibility and connection between the mainland and the country’s sacred seas and islands.

The mission’s success reaffirmed the enduring significance of the spirit of “Truong Sa for the country, the country for Truong Sa,” helping to strengthen public support, bolster overall national strength and safeguard the nation’s sovereignty over its seas and islands.