We met Private Pham Viet Hung, Squad 2, Platoon 1, Company 1, Guard Battalion, after he had completed his guard duty at dusk. The summer sun in the mountainous region cast a dark, reflective glow on his skin. Pham Viet Hung explained: "Performing duty at the gate of the Command Headquarters, maintaining the flow of all military personnel and civilians coming to work at the unit, requires us to concentrate, thoroughly understand regulations, and perform our duties well at all times. For each guard soldier, the difficulties and challenges lie not only in the unpredictable and harsh weather but also in ensuring regularity, uniformity, and adherence to regulations; and in promptly handling any situations that arise to ensure absolute safety in the assigned area."

Changing guard shifts.
Officers and soldiers of the Guard Battalion, 2nd Corps Staff Headquarters, consistently maintain strict, disciplined, and serious conduct at the guard gates.

With the mission of maintaining combat readiness, patrolling and guarding, ensuring absolute safety and security for the Command Headquarters and agencies of the Corps; practicing plans and being ready to handle A2 situations; undertaking military control in the province, serving as honor guards, receiving guests, contributing to maintaining political security and social order in the area where they are stationed… the officers and soldiers of the Guard Battalion always uphold the tradition of "As strong as steel - As firm as bronze - As clear as a mirror," striving to complete all assigned tasks.

Practice combat readiness scenarios to defend targets.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Bui Van Nhan, Battalion Commander of the Guard Battalion: "The secret" to the self-discipline of the guards in performing their duties is, first and foremost, the exemplary conduct of officers at all levels within the unit; doing a good job of disseminating information and educating to raise awareness and responsibility among each soldier. Maintaining strict order and procedures in the process of leading, changing, and handing over guard duty, especially understanding responsibilities, duties, guard duty areas, regulations on the use of firearms and ammunition, and particularly maintaining proper etiquette and conduct during night guard duty.

Regular training is provided on drill movements, vehicle identification methods, and methods for inspecting people and goods entering and exiting the guard gate. Simultaneously, each soldier is trained to be highly flexible in handling situations, maintaining a professional demeanor while on guard duty and creating a positive impression on visitors to the agency…

Text and photos: VAN TUYEN