President Ho Chi Minh mausoleum: insiders memories

Introduction

(Written for the 2009 publication) [*]

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command - an Armed Forces Hero Unit of the People's Armed Forces during the new era, is a military unit entrusted by the Party and the State with a special task: to long-term preserve and absolutely safely protect the body of President Ho Chi Minh. Over 40 years of safeguarding President Ho’s body and 34 years of opening the Mausoleum to welcome domestic and international visitors, the officers, workers, and soldiers of the unit have overcome numerous difficulties and challenges, excellently fulfilling every assigned task, living up to the tradition of "Unleashing the Power of Filial Piety, Solidarity, Self-Reliance, and Proactive Creativity."

Chapter 1 of the book "President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Insider’ Memories," after its publication, has provided readers, especially the officers, workers, and soldiers in the unit, with profound insights into the unit's development process.

On the occasion of summarizing 40 years of fulfilling the enduring task of preserving and ensuring the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh’s body, the Party Standing Committee and President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command, in coordination with the People’s Army Publishing House, continue to publish Chapter 2 of the book "President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Insider’ Memories." This volume gathers articles and essays about the persistent and enduring struggle, overcoming various difficulties and challenges with the silent contributions of the officers, workers, and soldiers through different periods, proactively innovating and rising to fulfill the enduring task of preserving and ensuring the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh’s body.

The Party Standing Committee and President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command sincerely thank the comrades, officers, workers, and soldiers who have served and are currently working in the unit. They also express gratitude to the Russian Federation's military medical advisors and the People's Army Publishing House for their assistance and facilitation in the publication of this book.

We look forward to receiving valuable contributions and feedback from readers and continuing to receive new articles about President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command for future volumes.

To our readers!

Sincerely,

THE PARTY STANDING COMMITTEE, PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM HIGH COMMAND

40 YEARS OF LOYALTY BESIDE THE PRESIDENT

Major General NGUYEN VAN CUONG

Head of the Mausoleum Management Board, and Commander of President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

On September 02, 1969, President Ho Chi Minh - the great leader of our Party and nation, a dedicated soldier in the communist and international workers' movements, the Hero of the Liberation of the Vietnamese People, and an outstanding cultural figure, bid farewell to us, leaving countless regrets for the entire Vietnamese people and international friends. His life, career, and thoughts live on with the present generation and countless generations to come.

In line with the national tradition of "When you drink water, think of the source," with boundless love and gratitude for President Ho Chi Minh, the Party and the State had decided to preserve his body permanently and build a mausoleum for him, allowing present and future generations of Vietnamese people to visit, learn, and forever follow the path chosen by the Party and President Ho Chi Minh.

After 40 years of preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body and 34 years of opening the mausoleum to welcome fellow countrymen and international guests, the officers, workers, and soldiers of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command have overcome numerous difficulties and challenges, excellently fulfilling the special political mission entrusted by the Party, State, army, and people. President Ho Chi Minh’s body is well-preserved; his distinctive features from his lifetime are kept intact. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square has been renovated and embellished to be increasingly elegant and clean, warmly welcoming people and international guests who come to visit President Ho Chi Minh. This reflects deep and lasting gratitude for his immense contributions to the people and the country.

The process of construction and development of the unit was a journey of persistent and resilient efforts, overcoming numerous difficulties and challenges with silent achievements. During the years of the resistance war against the United States, national salvation, the officers and soldiers of Unit 69 (the former unit of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command) stood side by side with Soviet experts, overcoming many challenges to preserve, maintain, and ensure the safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body. Particularly after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the unit faced an extremely difficult period, full of hardships and challenges, as the non-repayable assistance from the Soviet state for the construction of the Mausoleum was no longer available. However, this challenging period also provided an opportunity for the unit to step by step rise to the task of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body. Following the guidance of the Political Bureau, the Prime Minister, directly from the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of National Defense, and the Party Committee, the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command formulated various strategies and leadership measures to promote the spirit of independence, self-reliance, proactive innovation, and the implementation of significant and sustainable tasks which satisfied both emergency demands and long-term sustainability. With appropriate steps, leveraging accumulated experiences and effective cooperation with domestic scientists and Russian experts from the Moscow Biomedical Research Center, the unit gradually became a master in the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh’s body. Incorporating the advice of Russian experts, they swiftly invested in building the capacity of Institute 69, gradually becoming self-sufficient in the medical care and preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body. Meanwhile, the focus is on training and supplementing personnel, equipment and collaborating with domestic research institutions, and implementing numerous projects at the national, ministerial, and institutional levels, while also organizing experimental research. In addition to total dependence on foreign assistance, the unit successfully mastered the processes of producing regular and large-scale medicines for the preservation of President Ho Chi Minh’s body, serving both regular and unexpected visitations while ensuring absolute safety. Notably, in 2004, the unit proactively prepared in all aspects, collaborated with Russian experts and successfully produced a special solution in Vietnam for the large-scale preservation work in 2004. This historical milestone marked a remarkable leap in the unit's growth, affirming its ability to gradually take control of the task of long-term preservation and the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body.

To contribute to the successful implementation of the long-term medical mission for President Ho Chi Minh’s body, the unit focused on gradually taking control of the entire technical equipment system of the Mausoleum. In 1990, most of the technical equipment systems of the Mausoleum and related constructions had deteriorated, requiring replacement and repair. Despite the lack of assistance and expert support, the unit proactively overcame all difficulties. On the one hand, effectively managing and exploiting the old equipment system, and on the other hand, leveraging internal resources, collaborating with specialized experts in military and civilian research institutions, step by step replacing key equipment with modern technologies to meet the development requirements of the mission. Many technical innovations and process optimizations were efficiently applied, contributing to energy savings, reducing operational and maintenance costs, extending the lifespan of equipment, increasing the redundancy factor, and being ready to serve well in cases of floods, power outages, and other emergencies.

In parallel with medical preservation and technical tasks, ensuring security and ceremonial duties are also given special attention. The unit has timely detected and addressed security violations in the area, protection regulations violations and ensuring absolute safety for the Mausoleum; major national events, ceremonies, and festivals held in the area of the Mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square have been successfully organized.

Ceremonial work has been developed since the opening of the Mausoleum and has been supplemented and improved over the years. To enhance the quality of ceremonial work to meet national standards, the Command has researched, reported, and received government approval, starting from May 19, 2001, to ceremoniously raise the flag daily in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This is a meaningful activity contributing to the education of national pride, the responsibility of each citizen to the country, and the profound connection with the sacred symbol of the nation and its leader, Ho Chi Minh.

Regarding reception and propaganda tasks, the unit closely coordinated with the Mausoleum Management Board, the Ba Dinh Historical and Cultural Complex, gradually improving service quality, creating favorable conditions for people and international visitors to visit President Ho Chi Minh, organizing political activities, and sightseeing in the area. In recent years, the number of domestic and international visitors to President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has increased, with over 30,000 people a day, but they have all been received safely, attentively, and thoughtfully. Since the opening of the Mausoleum, the unit has welcomed more than 40 million visitors, including nearly 7 million foreign visitors from over 160 countries and international organizations. The unit has hosted more than 1,400 political and cultural events at President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Especially from 2003 to now, the unit has proactively collaborated with localities to welcome many delegations of Heroic Vietnamese Mothers, families with revolutionary contributions from southern provinces or remote and far-reaching areas to visit President Ho Chi Minh. At Da Chong Monument area, in recent years, the unit has welcomed tens of thousands of visitors to commemorate Uncle Ho and explore the historical site, contributing to educational efforts and effectively promoting the campaign “Studying and Following the shining Moral Example of President Ho Chi Minh”.

In line with its proud and entrusted duties, the unit has consistently placed great importance on and successfully carried out political education, ideological work, and the construction of a clean and strong Party organization linked to building a comprehensive, strong unit. It has closely combined education, training, and raising awareness of Marxist-Leninist ideology, Ho Chi Minh's thoughts, the Party's path and viewpoints, ensuring that every officer, worker, and soldier has a purely political nature, absolute trust in the Party's leadership, loyalty, dedication, and a connection to the long-term preservation mission, ensuring the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh’s body. The Party Committee and the Mausoleum High Command have focused on training and building a team of officials with high moral and professional qualities, with strong and sustainable leadership capabilities. Despite facing numerous difficulties and challenges over the 40-year journey, the unit's officers, workers, and soldiers have built a tradition of “Unleashing the Power of Filial Piety, Solidarity, Self-Reliance, and Proactive Creativity”

For their outstanding achievements in recent years, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command has been awarded the Ho Chi Minh Medal and the First-Class Independence Medal. Two units, Institute 69 and Unit 195, were honored with the titles of Hero of Labor and Hero of the People's Armed Forces. Particularly, on December 22, 2004, the Party and State bestowed the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command with the prestigious title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces during the renovation period.

The unit's success is attributed to the continuous attention and guidance from the Party and State, with direct involvement from the Central Military Party Committee and the Ministry of Defense. There has been close coordination with various forces within the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Ba Dinh Historical and Cultural Complex, as well as support from central agencies and experts from the former Soviet Union (now Russian experts). The unit also acknowledges the caring assistance from local Party committees, authorities, and people nationwide.

Entering a new stage of the revolution, to fulfill the heavy and glorious task entrusted by the Party, State, army, and people, every officer, worker, and soldier in the entire unit continues to elevate the spirit of self-reliance, harness internal strength, and proactively innovate in carrying out their missions. It is necessary to expand cooperation with scientific research institutions at home and abroad, enhance the quality and effectiveness of scientific research, perfect fundamental theories and experiments related to medical preservation tasks. The goal is to become a master in ensuring the long-term preservation and absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body. The unit is committed to the safe operation of the technical equipment system, the replacement, and innovation of technical equipment systems with modern and energy-efficient technologies, the dignified elevation of the architecture of the Mausoleum and the monuments in Ba Dinh Square, ensuring security, and absolute safety for the construction. Additionally, the unit will provide convenient and thoughtful services for people and international guests visiting President Ho Chi Minh, commemorating heroes and martyrs, and touring the Da Chong Monument area. The unit will also continue to build a strong, comprehensive unit according to regular standards, setting an example for the Party building, maintaining strong political purity, leading the formation of the unit with a strong and lasting bond, contributing to the overall success of the Party, the people, and the military in implementing the campaign "Studying and Following the shinning Moral Example of President Ho Chi Minh" to preserve the everlasting legacy of President Ho Chi Minh and the revolutionary ideology and morality.

GLORY STANDING BESIDE THE PRESIDENT

Noted by NGO VINH BINH

based on the story of Lieutenant General NGUYEN NGOC LAM

Political Commissar of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

President Ho Chi Minh embodies the noble spiritual values of the nation and the era. On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of his birth, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognized President Ho Chi Minh as the national liberation hero of Vietnam and a distinguished cultural figure. UNESCO affirms: ‘President Ho Chi Minh is an outstanding symbol of the unwavering determination of an entire nation that devoted their entire lives to the cause of national liberation in Vietnam, contributing to the collective struggle of nations for peace, national independence, democracy, and social progress.’ Therefore, preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body is not only safeguarding a precious heritage for the Vietnamese people but also for all of humanity, in line with the sentiments of people worldwide towards him.

Forty years have passed since the day Uncle Ho left us. Many generations of officers, workers, and soldiers of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command have overcome numerous difficulties and challenges, self-reliantly and resolutely fulfilling the special political mission entrusted by the Party, the State, the Army, and the people. Uncle Ho’s body is preserved in the best condition. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square, a place of historical significance, where the 'soul of mountains and rivers' resides - a unique cultural and architectural work, the pride of the entire nation, is meticulously maintained, protected, and has warmly welcomed millions of compatriots and soldiers from all regions of the country, as well as international friends from various continents, expressing profound affection for Uncle Ho.

Amidst the historical days of August, in an atmosphere of comradeship, the entire nation actively participates in the campaign ‘Studying and Following the shining Moral Example of President Ho Chi Minh.’ Towards the commemoration of the 34^th anniversary of the Traditional Day of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Protection Unit, Major General Nguyen Ngoc Lam, the Political Commissar of the High Command, a general hailing from Luu Phuong (Kim Son - Ninh Binh) who participated in battles in the Central Highlands, South Laos, Southwest, twice served international missions in Cambodia, and has nearly 30 years of the honorable duty of 'guarding the sleep of Uncle Ho,' had a meeting with some writers, poets from the Editorial Board of the Military Literature Journal, and exemplary military musicians. The Lieutenant General initiated the conversation: 'If today Colonel - poet Pham Ngoc Canh, Colonel - writer Nguyen Tri Huan, Major General - musician An Thuyen were present, then we would have a complete set of artists who have accompanied the Mausoleum Protection Unit for the past 40 years! We rarely meet, but it seems that every day we can watch and listen to your works...' Hearing the Political Commissar speak, young writer Nguyen Dinh Tu whispered to me: 'Musician Thuan Yen is probably the one who has written the best songs about Uncle Ho, right?' I want to illustrate the thoughts of Major General Lam and the writer's question that, in the morning flag-raising ceremony, the Mausoleum Protection Unit starts with 'Marching under the Military Flag' by musician Doan Nho, ending with 'Uncle Ho is Marching with Descendants' by musician Huy Thuc; during the night standing guard under the moonlight, the young soldiers hear the distant melody of 'Ba Dinh Moon' by musician Thuan Yen (inspired by poet Pham Ngoc Canh)..., and to understand the traditions of the Mausoleum Protection Unit, besides the chronicle book by Dr. Vu Tang Bong, one cannot miss reading “For a peaceful sleep of Uncle Ho” by writers Nguyen Bao, Nguyen Tri Huan, and others...!

One time, I asked a question: as the Political Commissar, honored to have the 'glorious duty of standing beside Uncle Ho,' what was your first impression when you were beside him? Major General Nguyen Ngoc Lam confided: 'On July 15, 1981, after 13 years of fighting on various fronts, I received orders to work at the Mausoleum High Command. On the first day of duty, I wore the ceremonial uniform with a serious mission, looked at myself in the mirror and felt truly handsome and mature. I thought it seems that poet Pham Ngoc Canh said for me and all the honored soldiers standing guard beside Uncle in the poem 'Moon Rises': Standing guard by the porch / I become a sailor / Smoothly paddling the oars / In the dreamy universe..., and: I see the limitless horizon / Not as my heart imagined / When I see the fairy / In the most simple thee.' The Political Commissar added that his military life has many memorable days, each seemingly associated with memories of Uncle Ho. Upon receiving the news of Uncle Ho's passing through the Voice of Vietnam, his Engineer Brigade 24, which was stationed on a high point in Gia Lai province, was shocked and moved as if they couldn't believe their ears. The unit held a solemn funeral for Uncle Ho on a rainy day midst the ancient forest of the Central Highland. Tears mixed with raindrops on the young and blackened faces of soldiers after intense days of fierce combat and sleepless nights due to missing Uncle Ho. Turning sorrow into strength, immediately afterward (September 11, 1969), his unit won a decisive victory against the U.S. forces (including tanks, air support) in a fierce battle at Huynh Village, near Gia Nhien stream... And in that battle, he had the honor of being admitted to the Party. At that time, he was just over a year in the military and 19 years old!

Preserving Uncle Ho's body for future generations to venerate is the sacred wish of the entire Party, the entire people, and the entire army. The Party's intent and the people's hearts have met... For nearly 35 years, the Mausoleum, along with Ba Dinh Square, the Ho Chi Minh Museum, and the Ho Chi Minh Presidential Palace area, has truly become a sacred land, a center of cultural and historical significance, a unique architectural complex, and an ecological garden on a national scale, with many precious trees and flowers, where millions of people from all over come to reminisce, admire, and express their eternal love for Uncle Ho, pledging to follow the path he charted; at the same time, it is the uniqueness and pride of Thang Long - Hanoi as it approaches the celebration of its 1,000th anniversary! The Political Commissar mentioned that since its inauguration (August 29, 1975) until now, more than 40 million people have visited the Mausoleum, including nearly 7 million foreign guests from over 160 countries and international organizations. We were shown the golden book containing the impressions of compatriots, comrades, and friends from near and far when visiting Uncle Ho's Mausoleum. It was truly touching but also a source of pride for our Uncle Ho!

I recall meeting a Southern fellow, poet Vien Phuong, the author of the poem 'Visiting Uncle Ho's Mausoleum.' He recounted: In 1976, for the first time, he came to the North, like other fellow countrymen from the South, coming to the North, coming to Hanoi, and visiting Uncle Ho's Mausoleum was a sacred desire. He remembered that morning, it was light rain, Hanoi was in the cold wind, he silently joined the line of people queuing up to enter the Mausoleum. The lush green bamboo rows, the late spring cherry blossoms flaunting their beauty, the sound of birds singing here and there... Everyone wanted to spend a long time with Uncle Ho. Uncle Ho lay there peacefully as if sleeping after a day of worries about the people and the nation!... He couldn't hold back his tears. Leaving the Mausoleum, he suddenly composed a poem: “From the South, I’ve come to see you” and the image of a red sun passing over the Mausoleum lingered in his mind until one day the poem was born with respectful verses: “From the South I’ve come to see you / In the mist, I see the spreading wide the rows of bamboo / Oh! Bamboo! The green icon of Vietnam / They still stand straight through storms and rain / Day by day, the sun passes over the Mausoleum / But I see another Sun inside the Mausoleum which is pure red and the verses full of memories and love: Already known the sky is eternally blue / But why does my heart still hurt a lot / When thinking of returning to the South, my tears are just burst out / Thinking of returning to the South, I will miss you somehow / I want to become a bird singing around here every day / I want to become a flower emitting fragrance if I can stay / And I want to become a tall bamboo and forever this way. The poet conveyed the feelings of millions of distant fellows who returned to the capital, entered the Mausoleum, and expressed their love for Uncle Ho...

The stories about the spirit of "serving the people" by generations of officers and soldiers of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Protection Unit, as narrated by the Political Commissar, are recorded in dozens of impression notebooks and extensively covered in newspapers. These stories are endless, encompassing unique tales that are exclusive to Vietnam and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Protection Unit. For instance, the stories about the honor guard soldiers who must maintain strict discipline for the entire 60 minutes (later reduced to 30 minutes) under scorching heat (38 - 40°C outdoors) and cold. There are also stories of boot imprints etched meticulously on the path where our soldiers stand guard day after day, like a tribute to the dedication and training achievements of these honorable guard soldiers...

The images of honor guard soldiers at Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, along with the ones performing the daily flag-raising ceremony at Ba Dinh Square, are simultaneously solemn, youthful, healthy, and beautiful. They serve as symbols of the nation's dignity and reflect the absolute trust the Party and the people have in the military, in "Uncle Ho's Army." Political Commissar Nguyen Ngoc Lam adds that every officer and soldier of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command is well aware of the honor and responsibility entrusted to them. Those selected to join this special unit, carrying out the special tasks of the Vietnam People's Army, take pride in their service. Officers, staff, and soldiers throughout the unit feel a deep connection with the images and symbols of these honor guard soldiers.

Political Commissar Nguyen Ngoc Lam shares a poignant story of a teacher from a mountainous area who dreams of bringing her husband and children to Hanoi to visit Uncle Ho. A friend of mine, the writer Hoang Dinh Quang from Ho Chi Minh City, attending a writers' congress, managed to convince the narrator to visit Ba Dinh Square to witness the changing of the guard and the flag-raising ceremony, even recording a song on his handheld phone to share directly with his wife. Another friend of mine who is living abroad, had a chance to visit Ba Dinh Square when she paid a visit to Vietnam. She was so moved by the sight of the soldiers raising the national flag with utmost dignity that she couldn't hold back her tears, declaring, "This is my Fatherland”.

These images have inspired many poets to write poems (some selected for notable Vietnamese poetry collections) and musicians to compose beautiful songs (which are later considered as timeless songs). During the meeting, musician Huy Thuc performed his latest song titled "The Green Da Chong," while musician Doan Nho presented ideas for continuing a theatrical piece about Uncle Ho called "Three Rivers, One Family." Musician Thuan Yen gifted the honor guard soldiers a collection of 30 songs dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh, and writer Nguyen Bao announced the upcoming reissue of his book "For a Peaceful Sleep of Uncle Ho” on the next Independence Day.

Asked about the most commendable achievements of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Protection Unit over the past 40 years, Major General Nguyen Ngoc Lam unhesitatingly said: For the past forty years, overcoming numerous difficulties and challenges, the President Ho Chi Minh Protection Unit has consistently excelled in its mission to preserve the body of President Ho Chi Minh intact, secure, and enduring. This is the top political task assigned directly by the Party, State, and the people, specifically by the Central Military Party Committee and the Ministry of National Defense. We also express gratitude to the former Soviet Union, and now the Russian Federation, for their assistance in our endeavor to preserve and protect President Ho Chi Minh's body from 1969 to the present. Eighty-two medical experts from their country have joined us in carrying out this special political mission, leaving behind deep sentiments and positive impressions in the hearts of every member of our unit. They work with selflessness, dedication, simplicity, and humility, treating the officers and soldiers of the Mausoleum Protection Unit as their own family.

The responsibilities include managing and operating equipment and machinery at the Mausoleum and related constructions, organizing honor guards at the Mausoleum, ensuring the safety of the Mausoleum area, welcoming domestic and international visitors to pay respects to President Ho Chi Minh, and organizing political-cultural activities at the Mausoleum. Managing and serving activities at the Memorial Monument for heroes and martyrs, organizing daily flag-raising ceremonies in front of President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are also crucial tasks entrusted to the officers, workers, and soldiers of the Mausoleum Protection Unit.

The pressure of the job is constantly increasing. Comrades in the High Command added that on the National Day of September 02, officers and soldiers had to welcome and serve over 32,000 visitors for five consecutive hours. Just arranging parking spaces for that many people was a considerable challenge. Moreover, there is a diverse range of visitors, including the elderly, young, war veterans, and disabled individuals, both domestic and international, with unpredictable weather conditions. How to provide the best service for everyone in every situation is a constant concern. Hence, the unit has members assigned to tasks such as carrying and pushing wheelchairs to assist war veterans and disabled individuals, as well as providing mobile sunshades and rain covers to ensure the best service for people visiting President Ho Chi Minh.

Comrades in the political organization, the Mausoleum High Command, share stories of comrades who are war veterans, some with both eyes injured, stating that although they cannot see President Ho Chi Minh, they still feel the warmth transmitted by him. There are also comrades and fellow citizens who come to Hanoi with frustration about various issues. After visiting President Ho Chi Minh and watching the film 'The Last Moments of Uncle Ho,' they suddenly feel their hearts calm down. Just like the poet To Huu once wrote: “We became purer when we think about Uncle Ho”.

The Political Commissar said that: Political and cultural activities were organized more than 30 years ago, following the Cultural Propaganda Conference at the Mausoleum by the Mausoleum High Command and the Ministry of Culture in May 1978, various social organizations, mass organizations, factories, schools, hospitals, military units, and police departments joined cultural propaganda activities and political events at the Mausoleum. These activities became a cultural beauty of the people at all levels, particularly in the capital and among the youth across the country. While there were only 10 cultural and political activities organized at the Mausoleum in 1980, the number increased to 239 in 2002 and reached 350 in 2008.

Forty years after Uncle Ho's passing, the journey has been filled with challenges requiring the entire unit to strive to its fullest. The ongoing difficulties include the preservation of Uncle Ho’s body in a vast space with Vietnam's tropical climate, the challenge of maintaining stable environmental conditions and meeting standards due to the large number of visitors, and the relative inexperience in operating the first-of-its-kind equipment in Vietnam. However, as Major General Nguyen Ngoc Lam emphasizes, with the heroic tradition of the unit, the awareness of their honor and responsibility, the officers, staff, and soldiers of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command will excellently fulfill this special political task. They will build a strong Party organization and unit, promote the political and cultural significance of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Ba Dinh Historical-Cultural Complex, and contribute to the overall success of the "Studying and Following the shinning Moral Example of President Ho Chi Minh" movement - a fitting response to the trust of the Party, the people, and the entire army and a true acknowledgment of the immeasurable love for Uncle Ho!

VIETNAMESE PEOPLE WILL FOREVER ADMIRE AND EXPRESS THEIR RESPECT FOR THE GREAT PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH

Iu.A. KOROSKOV

Moscow Biomedical Research Center, the Russia Federation

On September 02, 1969, President Ho Chi Minh entered the eternal realm, but for the past 40 years, he has continued to live alongside the Vietnamese people. Each person visiting the Mausoleum to pay respects still witnesses a great person, bowing in reverence and expressing deep respect for him.

The achievements we see today are thanks to the contributions and collaboration of medical scientists, technical experts from Russia and Vietnam, along with the participation of many individuals in various fields. Their hard work has successfully ensured the preservation and long-term protection of President Ho Chi Minh's body.

As someone who has been involved in the mission of preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body from the very beginning, I would like to share some memories and personal impressions of this significant moment in Vietnam's history.

President Ho Chi Minh is a great leader of the Party and the Vietnamese people; a dedicated soldier in the communist and international workers' movements, a hero of national liberation, and a distinguished cultural figure. Therefore, after his departure, the collective desire of the entire nation is to perpetually preserve the beloved President’s body for many generations to come.

In response to the wishes of the entire Party and the people of Vietnam, the leadership of the Soviet Union decided to assist Vietnam in the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body. Based on that decision, a team of experts from the V.I. Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute, led by Academician X.X. Debop (Director), along with experts such as Academician Iu.M. Lopukin, the Rector of the Medical University No. 2 in Moscow, Dr. I.N. Mikhalov, and two young experts Iu.A. Khoroskov and G.N. Sattop, were dispatched to work in Vietnam.

The flight to Hanoi was long and perilous, as it was an unofficial flight, and Vietnam was in the midst of war with intense aerial battles. After the plane landed at Gia Lam Airport, we were warmly welcomed and taken to the guesthouse by Vietnamese comrades. Everything was unusual and unfamiliar to us, including the situation in Vietnam and the climate, but we had to get to work immediately. Not long after we arrived in Vietnam, the Soviet Ambassador to Vietnam and the Head of the Consulate met and worked with us. Later, we were received by Prime Minister Pham Van Dong and other leaders of Vietnam. We had a brief exchange with the Minister of Public Security and with comrade Vu Ky - Secretary of President Ho Chi Minh. It must be said that immediately after President Ho Chi Minh's passing, the Party and State of Vietnam entrusted the task to the military. Despite extremely difficult wartime conditions, the comrades concentrated their spirits and efforts, carrying out all tasks to ensure the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh’s body. To fulfill this mission, Vietnam established a special medical team led by anatomist Dr. Nguyen Gia Quyen. The team included comrades Le Ngoc Man, Le Dieu, Nguyen Van Chau, and Sai Van The, and later, many young officers were added to this special medical team. Major Vu Ha was assigned as our interpreter. Due to the special importance of the mission, our team's activities were directly supervised by Minister of Health Vu Van Can, along with many leaders from the Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Public Security, including comrades Le Quang Dao, Phung The Tai, and Tran Kinh Chi. Thus, from the early stages of preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body, there was close and mutually respectful cooperation between us and Vietnamese officials, especially with the involvement of comrades appointed to lead this responsibility. The Vietnamese comrades I mentioned and many others made significant contributions to the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh’s body.

After President Ho Chi Minh's passing, it was necessary to immediately undertake temporary preservation work to serve the state funeral and mourning ceremonies at Ba Dinh Square. At that time, Vietnamese comrades successfully crafted a glass coffin for President Ho Chi Minh’s body and ensured the maintenance of temperature and humidity conditions at the location in Ba Dinh Square. They also decorated the hall, implemented security measures, and handled various organizational tasks to serve the state-level funeral. Despite the wartime challenges, the funeral and mourning ceremonies were well-organized and dignified.

The people who came to pay their respects to President Ho Chi Minh, despite their sorrow, did not show a hint of despair, worry, or confusion on their faces. President Ho Chi Minh's departure further united the Vietnamese people. They all understood that in this moment of sorrow for the nation, no one should despair or fall. Everyone had to turn their grief into action to realize the aspirations and dreams of President Ho Chi Minh, especially the struggle for national liberation and reunification.

A delegation from the Soviet Union, led by Chairman of the Council of Ministers A.N. Kosygin, visited Vietnam to participate in the funeral of President Ho Chi Minh, and many delegations from various countries also came to offer their respects.

After the funeral, a solemn memorial ceremony for President Ho Chi Minh was held at Ba Dinh Square, with the participation of a large number of people. Present at the memorial, we witnessed the deep sorrow of the Vietnamese people upon President Ho's passing, as well as their determination to follow his teachings. During this time, negotiations between the Soviet and Vietnamese governments took place regarding the embalming of President Ho Chi Minh’s body and the location of the process. The Soviet delegation included Chairman of the Council of Ministers A.N. Kosygin and Academician X.X. Debop, the Director of the V.I. Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute, among others. The discussions mainly focused on overcoming difficulties in Vietnam, where the necessary conditions for the embalming process, similar to those in the Soviet Union, were lacking, and considering the tropical climate. Despite the challenges, Vietnam lacked specialized laboratories, medical equipment, air conditioning systems to maintain the required temperature, as well as necessary chemicals and materials. Nevertheless, to fulfill the people's wishes, the Vietnamese government decided to embalm President Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi. Both the Soviet Union and Vietnam implemented every possible solution to ensure medical and technical conditions.

A particularly crucial task at the time was to preserve President Ho’s body unchanged until the equipment and materials from the Soviet Union arrived in Vietnam, indicating the start of the embalming process. Temporary preservation technology was employed to maintain the body for a short period. Therefore, the expert team in Hanoi, including I.N. Mikhailov, Iu.A. Khoroskov, and G.N. Sattop (X.X. Debop and Iu.M. Lopukin returned to Moscow), carried out measures to stabilize the condition of the body. The work was successfully carried out until the commencement of the embalming process.

As decided, it didn't take long for the necessary equipment and chemicals to be transported to Hanoi by a dedicated aircraft. Deputy Director of the V.I. Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute, Iu.A. Romakov, also arrived in Hanoi on the same flight. Immediately, we began preparing laboratories, installing technical equipment, and air conditioning systems. Sanitation and disinfection were given special attention to protect the body from microbial contamination in the tropical climate. The preparations were carried out well, allowing the embalming of President Ho Chi Minh. Throughout the work, we collaborated closely with Vietnamese officials and received significant assistance from Party, State, military, and Ministry of Health leaders.

After the successful embalming, various challenges arose regarding the preservation of the body in wartime conditions. Vietnamese comrades constructed multiple locations for temporary relocation, ensuring absolute secrecy and safety for preserving the body. These sites also needed the necessary conditions for medication preparation and maintaining temperature, humidity, and sterile hygiene. The transportation of the body was meticulously planned to ensure absolute safety and prevent any damage during relocation. Not only Soviet and Vietnamese experts directly participated in this task, but Party and military leaders, as well as security forces, actively contributed, including comrades Phung The Tai and Tran Kinh Chi. I also worked in one of these relocation sites and observed that despite wartime challenges, Vietnamese comrades ensured all necessary conditions for medication preparation and absolute safety for the body.

We are always grateful to the Vietnamese comrades who cared about our daily lives during our time working together. Vietnamese friends understood that we lived far from our homeland, families, and relatives for a considerable time, facing harsh tropical climates and wartime conditions. They made great efforts to improve our daily lives. Since our early days in Vietnam, the comrades in the Foreign Relations Department helped us significantly. In the following years, comrade Quang (now deceased) played a major role in our lives and work in Vietnam. He served as both our interpreter, friend, and assistant, holding the position of Head of the Foreign Relations Department of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. Later, comrade Hoang Van Toan took over this role. Comrade Bui Thu Nga contributed not only high professionalism as an interpreter but also warm female companionship to our collaboration. Of course, many others facilitated our work and took care of our daily lives, such as drivers, cooks, and many more, each of whom is remembered with warmth and gratitude every time they are mentioned.

The construction and inauguration of the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh is a significant event in the political and social life of the country. Now every Vietnamese citizen can visit this magnificent structure, witness their beloved President, and express their respect. Opening the Mausoleum for visitors has introduced new challenges that were not encountered before. Preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body in the Mausoleum under regular visitation conditions involves a complex coordination of tasks, managed by medical and technical experts. The organization of this work must be meticulous to avoid any incidents affecting the preservation and the reception of visitors. I observed that among the Vietnamese medical and technical officials, many talented individuals have mastered their tasks and made significant contributions to the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh’s body, ensuring the stable operation of the Mausoleum. Over time, individuals with talent, knowledge, dedication, and hard work have advanced to positions like Commander, Head of the Mausoleum Management Board, such as comrades Nguyen Quang Tan and Dao Huu Nghia. The first Commanders such as Tran Kinh Chi, Luong Soan also had many contributions to the Mausoleum.

The early stages of the Mausoleum's opening occasionally faced unusual situations in organizing visits. At that time, I served as the Chief Specialist of Soviet Medical Experts stationed at the Mausoleum. After the Mausoleum's inauguration, numerous delegations from various regions came to pay respects, including Hanoi residents who wished to meet their beloved Leader. However, the preservation rules required strict adherence to temperature and humidity regulations within the Mausoleum, including specified visitation hours for each session. Organizing visitations did not have much prior experience at that time. Therefore, many people arriving in Hanoi missed the visitation hours and expressed dissatisfaction and confusion, questioning why the Mausoleum staff did not work overtime to accommodate those who traveled from distant places with the hope of seeing President Ho Chi Minh. While understanding their sentiments, we had to adhere strictly to the preservation rules because preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body is not a short-term task; it is a long-term commitment for many generations of Vietnamese people.

The Vietnamese leadership consistently focuses on training personnel to serve the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh’s body. The establishment of Institute 69 is a crucial milestone, serving as a scientific research and training center for specialists in the field of embalming and preservation, with assistance from Russian experts from the Moscow Biomedical Research Center. I had the opportunity to participate in this work, lecturing and engaging in scientific discussions with Vietnamese medical experts in 1995. During that period, I was deeply impressed by the achievements of the Institute since 1969 in training specialists dedicated to the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh’s body.

We have developed a close working relationship with our Vietnamese counterparts, particularly with the doctors. As mentioned earlier, from the early days in Vietnam, amidst a divided nation, we stood shoulder to shoulder, working alongside Vietnamese doctors. We shared valuable knowledge and experiences acquired from the V.I. Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute and later from the Moscow Biomedical Research Center. These were exceptional individuals chosen to dedicate their lives to preserving the memories and images of the great President Ho Chi Minh. The Vietnamese colleagues from our generation, working with us, devoted all their time and efforts to the assigned mission, even during wartime when they had to live far from their families and loved ones. They laid the foundation for significant achievements in preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body for the people, and his image body was a great source of inspiration for Vietnam's historical victories. Notable contributors included the deceased Dr. Nguyen Gia Quyen, the first Head of the Medical Expert Team in Vietnam, who worked with us from the early days. In the team were also Dr. Le Dieu, Dr. Do Van Dai, and Dr. Nguyen Van Chau.

Among those who have made significant contributions to the preservation of President Ho Chi Minh’s body, I must mention Colonel, Dr. Lai Van Hoa, the Director of Institute 69; Colonel, Dr. Vu Van Binh, the Deputy Commander; Dr. Le Cong Bang, and many others. Throughout our collaboration, we always felt the care and support of Major General Nguyen Ngoc Lam, the Political Commissar of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. Many more individuals contributed to our shared mission, and I cannot mention them all.

In 2004, I had the honor of participating in the Scientific Conference and other activities to mark the 35th anniversary of preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body. I want to emphasize that, similar to previous years, prominent Russian scientists participated in the Scientific Council in 2004. The Council affirmed that President Ho Chi Minh’s body had not changed since the completion of the embalming process. This aligns with my personal observation, having seen President Ho Chi Minh in the early moments after his passing and participating in the embalming process. It reflects the results of the work conducted by Russian and Vietnamese medical and technical experts over several decades. Our collaboration continues to this day.

I was very honored to attend the grand state-level military parade and ceremony celebrating the complete liberation of Vietnam.

The nation achieved independence, freedom, and unity. After the liberation, I had the opportunity to return to Vietnam for work, witnessing the nation's revival, economic development, and the continuous improvement of people's lives. All these achievements are attributed to the strong resources that President Ho Chi Minh's life, career, and spiritual legacy provided to the Vietnamese people. Therefore, educating the younger generations to learn and follow his ethical example holds immense significance for the spiritual vitality of the entire nation.

FIRST DAYS OF PRESERVING UNCLE HO’S BODY

Noted by Colonel TRAN VU TRANG

based on the story of Colonel, Doctor LE DIEU,

Former Deputy Director of Institute 69

Receiving the summons to the Office of the Party Central Committee, I couldn't help but feel anxious and worried about the responsibilities of being the Head of the Surgery Department at the Vietnam-Soviet Friendship Hospital. I wondered if there was something wrong with our service and treatment for senior officials? Early on the morning of August 21, 1967, I went to No. 6 Nguyen Canh Chan Street and unexpectedly saw Nguyen Gia Quyen there. We were colleagues, and Quyen was a Major, a doctor, Head of the Anatomy Department at Military Hospital 108, Head of the Forensic Department at the Army Medical Department. As we looked at each other, no one said anything, but we all realized that something serious was happening. Indeed, we were assigned a mission to study medical science for the body preservation in the Soviet Union. During the task assignment, Comrade Le Duc Tho, a Politburo member and Head of the Central Organization Committee, directly met with us and instructed: "This is a top-secret task; everything we do is according to Uncle Ho's words, nothing is hidden from Uncle Ho except for this task, he must not know, if he knows, he will not allow it." Comrade Le Duc Tho kept repeating: Even for family members, such as wives and children, no details about this mission should be disclosed. The Soviet Union agreed to send three doctors for the study, but Dr. Le Ngoc Man, Head of the Endocrinology Department at Bach Mai Hospital, was absent due to communication problems and could not make it.

Quyen, on behalf of all of us, promised to fulfill the mission excellently, keeping the top-secret nature of the task and not betraying the trust of the Party leadership and the military. Among the three of us, Quyen was a Major in the reserves, Man was a Captain, and I was a Lieutenant; all three of us had experienced combat. Previously, I served as a military doctor in the Engineer Brigade 18, Division 325, operating in the fierce Binh-Tri-Thien Front. I thought, in this selection, the Politburo placed trust in the Military, in the absolute loyalty and ability of military officers and soldiers to complete any task.

On the evening of September 02, 1967, a Soviet Skoda car from the Railway General Authority silently left Hanoi with the three of us. The capital during the war years was still brightly lit at night, but only with dim lights in small lanterns; whenever there was an alert, all lights would go out. The streets were still lively, especially with military vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians wearing straw hats. The car crossed Chuong Duong floating bridge, heading north across the Red River, and we encountered convoys of covered trucks with only undercarriage lights on, moving in a line down the bridge.

Far from Hanoi in the war, far from my field hospital, far from my small apartment in the hospital's dormitory housing where my wife and children lived, my emotions were indescribable. We had received the order to leave, a sacred order! Ahead was a task of utmost importance that required full concentration of strength and mind to accomplish.

The journey from Hanoi to Moscow by train took more than ten thousand kilometers and nearly half a month. I remember the train stopping and going, taking five days from Dong Dang station to Beijing. At that time, China was undergoing a vigorous "cultural revolution," so we had to stay still and stop for three days to complete procedures. Then we traveled for two more days to Zabaican, and after another five days, we finally arrived in Moscow.

Traveling was difficult, but as soon as we arrived, there was a car to take us to the hotel. In the hotel room, while searching for the light switch, we heard someone knocking on the door, inviting us to work with the foreign affairs officials of the Ministry of Health. The next day, the Deputy Minister of Health met us, took a photo for entry paperwork, and we visited Lenin's Mausoleum. We were taken to the V.I. Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute to discuss and coordinate the study program. Academician X.X. Dobop, the Director of the Institute, explained that the study program consisted of two parts: the theoretical part mainly involved reading materials at the institute, and the practical part, led by Professor Xarovatop, who was directly involved in preserving Dimitrov's body. All three of us were proficient in French, making our studies more convenient through the teachings of Professor and Academician I.A. Saratov. The translator, fluent in seven languages, was L.A. Gingin.

During the day, we studied and worked, and in the evening, we continued researching, exchanging experiences, or reading materials to delve into a highly specialized and new scientific field. Every day, we turned on the radio to catch up on news from our homeland. Every Sunday, we visited Ambassador Nguyen Tho Chan to inquire about the situation back in Vietnam, if there were any directives and updates about the President's health status. Studying there was urgent, as everyone worried that if something happened to the President while we were still studying in the Soviet Union, it would be distressing. After seven months of study, we completed our mission, being able to handle the initial phase of preserving the body to cope with wartime situations that Soviet experts might not return in time.

Upon returning to the country, the United States had ceased bombing in the North. Upon arrival at Bang Tuong station, someone came to inform us that there was an Office of the Party Central Committee’s vehicle waiting behind the station. Thus, every step of our journey was closely monitored and supported by the Office. On that bright moonlit day, we arrived at Military Hospital 108, and Quyen helped us move our belongings into his room and then locked it. The next day, he gathered clothes to return to the Finance Department. It was too cold back in So Viet, so they bought each one of us a fur hat, gloves, and a coat. Comrade Nguyen Tho Chan allowed us to keep them as souvenirs, while all other items provided had to be returned. At the Office, before the trip, I received 21 Chinese yuan, and after expenses, there were 7 yuan left, which we returned. We had completed our mission and returned.

We had a day off and the day after we reported to Comrade Nguyen Luong Bang, in charge of Uncle Ho's health, and Comrade Nguyen Khai, Deputy Head of the Central Organization Committee. After hearing the report, Comrade Nguyen Luong Bang advised: "You must immediately train the next generation." At that time, I was 38, the youngest one on the team, while Quyen and Man were over 40. We proposed selecting young doctors for comprehensive training to succeed us. Through this, we could see the far-reaching vision of the Party leaders in building a close-knit team to preserve Uncle Ho's body for the long term.

Regarding the assignment of tasks, Comrade Quyen was in charge of general oversight, Comrade Man was assigned to the Presidential Palace to assist Doctor Nhu The Bao in caring for the President's health, and I was responsible for implementing the preparation of the special laboratory and conducting experiments. The Party leadership, the military, and Comrade Romakov would come to inspect whether we had the necessary conditions to preserve the President's body in Vietnam.

I worked in the department overseen by Comrade Quyen, and the secrecy was well maintained. People only knew that Comrade Dieu's working group, including Comrade Am, was responsible for a special medical department, as a civilian doctor was working in the military hospital. In June 1968, the Special Medical Team was officially established with Major, Doctor Nguyen Gia Quyen as the Head. The team members included: Captain, Doctor Le Ngoc Man; Second Lieutenant, Doctor Nguyen Van Chau; Medic Nguyen Trung Hat; Chief Nurse Pham Ngoc Am, and myself, who had rejoined the military and was promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant.

My first task was to work with Comrade Quyen to outline the repair of the facilities at Military Hospital 108 to serve the mission of preserving the President’s body. We labeled the rooms from numbers 1 to 6. I still remember this detail vividly; I can write and draw it again. Subsequently, Comrade Quyen and I worked with the first group of engineers, including Quyen, Van, Chieu, and Sinh, to repair, search for, and supplement the internal equipment. When the Special Medical Team returned to the country, So Viet provided us with surgical instruments and some specialized tools. However, we were still lacking many specialized equipment needed for the special medical mission. With the assistance of agencies and hospitals such as the Vietnam-Soviet Friendship Hospital, the Army Medical Department, the General Logistics Directorate, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, An Duong Stone Company, Dong Da Glass Factory, the Ministry of Forestry, and artisans in Hang Bac Street, we managed to prepare all the specialized tools such as special syringes, golden needles, etc., needed for the special medical mission. After completing the 75A facility, we conducted experiments on cadavers using the methods we had learned in the Soviet Union.

Comrade Nguyen Luong Bang instructed us: "we have to urgently conduct experiments so that the Central Party and the Politburo can be reassured; moreover, we have to pay close attention to exploiting the experiences of our ancestors." Comrade Hat and I went to coordinate the excavation of ancient tombs in Hung Yen as planned, but it was not successful.

After a period of preparation, the Party, State and military leaders, including Comrades Nguyen Luong Bang, Le Van Luong, Pham Ngoc Mau, Phung The Tai, Tran Kinh Chi, came to inspect. The first time they saw our experiments meeting the required standards, they were very satisfied and reassured.

At the end of 1968, Comrade Romakov, Deputy Director of the Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute, came for inspection. One evening, around 11 PM, I drove Comrade Romakov to the 75A facility in a black Volga car with curtains, passing through the gate of Military Hospital 108. Comrade Am was waiting at the entrance of the 75A facility to welcome us. Initially, Comrade Romakov was surprised because compared to the Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute, our 75A facility was too small and dark. But when he stepped inside, he was amazed to see the spaciousness, bright lights, air conditioning, and a ventilation system that ensured the prescribed temperature and humidity standards. Comrade Romakov pushed a stretcher around without encountering any obstacles, feeling reassured and very satisfied. In room 3, seeing a stone table, Comrade Romakov was surprised and asked, "Is this our table?". We answered, "This is the result of the skillful hands of the workers at An Duong Stone Company in Vietnam." Even more unexpectedly, he saw a specialized syringe that was 15 cm long. We found a 73-year-old artisan in Hang Bac Street and asked him to make that syringe.

Following the guidance instructed, we only reported the failures in the experiments for feedback, and we did not mention the successful ones. Comrade Romakov said, "Compared to the preservation conditions at the Institute for Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute, here we need to research adjustments suitable for the skin color of Asians”.

After that, during the farewell meeting for Comrade Romakov, which was organized by Comrade Le Van Luong, with the participation of Comrade Secbakop, the Soviet Ambassador; the very first words he said were to praise the Vietnamese colleagues for solving a very complex problem in a very short time. He expressed his personal opinion that Vietnam has all the conditions to preserve the President's body. He promised to report to the head of the institute to seek opinions. From then on, the 75A facility was always ready and regularly implemented drying and steaming preservation procedures, waiting for orders from the superior.

Then came the day that no one expected. Although I had been informed by Comrade Quyen about President Ho Chi Minh's health status, when I received the news of his passing, we were still shocked and in so much pain. At 75A, Comrade Phung The Tai, while crying, gave orders for everyone to take their duties. According to the assignment, the Special Medical Team, including Doctor Nguyen Gia Quyen, Doctor Nguyen Van Chau, Medic Nguyen Trung Hat, sat in the red hearse driven by Colonel Tran Kinh Chi, who commanded the mission to pick up President Ho Chi Minh's body from the traditional stilt house where he took his last breath.

Waiting at 75A were Comrades Nguyen Luong Bang, Le Quang Dao, Phung The Tai, and myself, along with Soviet medical experts, ready to receive the delegation bringing President Ho Chi Minh back. When the red hearse carrying President Ho Chi Minh's body stopped, everyone gathered around to bring him into the special room. Seeing President Ho Chi Minh in simple attire, peaceful and serene, as if resting peacefully, I couldn't believe my eyes, and tears suddenly burst out. Then, with the courage of a soldier and a military doctor, I calmed down because at that moment, the requirement was utmost diligence, utmost accuracy, and no room for even the smallest mistake.

At 75A, the Soviet experts and the Special Medical Team coordinated smoothly to complete the preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body during the initial stage - a stage that determined the subsequent long-term preservation of his body.

* *

Looking back, 40 years have passed since the day Uncle Ho departed, yet the memories of those unforgettable years remain vivid in me as if they just happened yesterday. Following the direct guidance of the Political Bureau and the Central Military Commission, and in response to the earnest wishes of the entire Party and the people, we have successfully fulfilled the sacred mission: preserving the President's body in the best possible condition, keeping intact the distinctive features of the beloved leader from his lifetime. We never forget the precious contributions of the Soviet medical experts, who were our direct mentors. They had trained and helped us with their heart. With deep respect for President Ho Chi Minh and the expertise of top international medical professionals, they wholeheartedly assisted us.

The Special Medical Team, the predecessor of Institute 69, successfully completed the initial assigned mission and laid the essential foundation for us to continue the long-term preservation, ensuring the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh’s body.

MISS MY SOVIET FRIENDS

Colonel VU VAN BINH

Deputy Head of Mausoleum Management Board

and Deputy Commander of President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

The President Ho Chi Minh’s body has been meticulously preserved and absolutely safe for over 40 years, retaining the distinctive features from his lifetime. This was the conclusion drawn in 2004 by the Vietnamese-Russian Scientific Council, assessing the state of President Ho Chi Minh’s body. The evaluation was conducted by Academician V.N. Iarugin and Professor Do Nguyen Phuong, both serving as co-chairs. The achievement was attributed to the tireless efforts of a dedicated team, from leadership to those directly involved.

Firstly, it was due to the keen, precise, and effective guidance of the superior Party and State leaders. Transforming the correct directives of the leadership into reality was made by a cadre of capable, devoted individuals loyal to the Party and the duty of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body. In this great accomplishment, the contribution of Soviet and now as known as Russian health experts from the Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute cannot be overlooked. Within the scope of this article, I will provide an overview of the contributions of Russian health experts.

From 1969 until now, a total of 82 health experts have come to Vietnam to assist, including 13 academicians, 7 professors, 11 doctors of science, 20 doctors, and the remaining specialized doctors.

The most frequent visitor was comrade Iu.A. Romakov, the Deputy Director, who came 24 times. On his first visit in 1968, he had the honor of attending a meeting with Uncle Ho to recognize his appearance while he was still alive.

Two individuals have visited Vietnam 23 times, namely the Director, Academician X.X. Debop, and the Deputy Director, Academician Iu.I. Denisov.

Six individuals have visited Vietnam from 10 to 19 times.

Thirteen individuals have visited Vietnam from 5 to 9 times.

Many exemplary academicians have participated in the Transnational Scientific Council to assess the status of the embalmed body and provide scientific advice.

Since August 28, 1969, two academicians were directly assigned to the mission: Academician X.X. Debop, the Director of the Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute; Academician Iu.M. Lopukin, the Rector of the Moscow Medical University.

In 1970, four academicians were sent on a mission to Vietnam: Academician N.A. Kraevski, Academician S.R. Madraxov, Academician V.V. Kuprianov, and Academician X.X. Debop.

In 1975, three academicians and two professors were sent: Academician S.E. Serevin, Academician V.V. Kuprianov, Academician X.X. Debop, Professor Romansev, and Professor M.R. Sapin.

In 1989, four academicians and one professor were sent: Academician M.R. Sapin, Academician X.X. Debop, Academician I.P. Asmarin, Academician M.K. Pemiakov, and Professor Iu.I. Denisov.

After 1991, on the occasion of even-numbered years when summarizing the task of preserving Uncle Ho's body, Russian scientists have consistently sent leading experts to directly assess the condition of Uncle Ho's embalmed body and provide scientific advice. In 1999, Academician Pokrovski, the President of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, was sent, and in 2004, Academician V.N. Iarugin, the Rector of the Moscow Medical University, was sent.

To illustrate the contributions of the So Viet experts, I would like to introduce some exemplary figures. Firstly, I must mention Academician Iu.M. Lopukin, born in 1924. Though not formally affiliated with the Lenin Mausoleum, he visited Vietnam six times. He was the former Rector of the Moscow Biomedical Research University and later became the Director of the Research Institute of Physical Chemistry under the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. He was one of the first five experts to arrive in Hanoi on August 28, 1969, and served as the primary surgeon responsible for preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body. He was a leading reconstructive surgeon century in Soviet Union in the late 20th. He directly performed the surgeon with the President's body at Area K9. His direct research on the distinctive features of President Ho Chi Minh's appearance in his lifetime helped achieve remarkable results in the preservation process. That’s why we concluded “The President’s body was preserved in the best possible condition, keeping intact the distinctive features from his lifetime”. Even words couldn’t explain enough the contribution and meticulous work and expertise of Iu.M. Lopukin in this crucial task.

One crucial aspect I learned from him is prudence and scientific thinking. Every issue related to preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body was explained on a scientific basis. In 1999, during a visit to Hanoi to participate in the Scientific Council assessing President Ho Chi Minh's body, he dedicated a session to explain why the preservation room must maintain a constant temperature of 16°C and air humidity of 70%.

This crucial information provided a solid theoretical foundation for preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body, fostering the unity between the medical and engineering sectors within the High Command.

He authored two valuable documents which were issued in Russia by Moscow Medical Publisher: "Lenin - The truth and myths about the disease-causing death and the preservation process". This document was translated into Vietnamese in 1998 by me and other colleagues. The second document was "Ho Chi Minh Entering Eternity and the embalming process." This document was translated into Vietnamese in 1999 by Doctor Lai Van Hoa – Director of Institute 69.

Other details not normally seen in a foreigner's house was the altar built for President Ho Chi Minh found in the private house of Academician Iu.M. Lopukin.

The second person I want to mention is Professor, Dr. V. Kajansev, born in 1942. As the Head of the Embalming Research Department, he visited Vietnam 14 times, first in 1971, directly participating in preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body during the war years. After 1995, he visited Vietnam eight times to lecture and assist in the preparation of embalming solutions. Despite being a medical doctor, he provided valuable insights into the design of the current embalming area at Institute 69. From 1996 onwards, he played a crucial role in eight collaborative research projects on embalming solutions in Moscow and Hanoi, laying the groundwork for both infrastructure and scientific theory in the embalming process. He also contributed to training numerous medical professionals specializing in biochemistry and preservation solutions. At Institute 69 in Hanoi, he directly presented 8 topics on biochemistry and several topics on the analysis and formulation of preservation solutions for long-term use during visits. Particularly, he played a crucial advisory role for the Director Board of the Moscow Biomedical Research Center to assist Vietnam in formulating solutions locally right at Institute 69 in Hanoi since 2004.

The third person I want to mention is Professor, Dr. B.I. Khumutov. Though he only visited Vietnam four times before he passed over a decade ago, he left numerous lively scientific debates at the Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute regarding the advantages and disadvantages of embalming methods, whether using liquid or dry preservation. At the end of 1992, he gave me the valuable document "Limitations of the liquid embalming method," providing a more objective and comprehensive view of the embalming method used at the Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute. He also introduced the dry preservation method, which does not involve liquid, a valuable perspective considering the prevalent emphasis on the achievements and advantages of the Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute's embalming method.

The fourth person I want to mention is Assoc. Dr. V. Vasiliepski, born in 1944. The former head of the Practical Anatomy Department visited Vietnam 14 times, sharing his expertise on the color of President Ho Chi Minh's skin. He was a leading expert in lighting and the study of skin color on embalmed bodies. Collaborating with Gieresov and Vietnamese experts, he researched the skin color characteristics of older Vietnamese people as a baseline for accurately assessing President Ho Chi Minh's skin color. Based on this, the current lighting system in the Mausoleum was established, ensuring that visitors perceive President Ho Chi Minh as if he were resting after a day of work, with minimal impact on the embalmed body. He also proposed numerous fundamental and long-term issues for research on skin color and lighting systems. He bid us farewell in 2008 after a period of treatment for a malignant disease. The scientific works he left us are very valuable.

The fifth person I want to introduce is not an individual but a father-son duo, Mr. Ginkin Annatoni (senior) and Mr. Ginkin Boris (junior). Mr. Ginkin Annatoni, born in 1938, visited Vietnam ten times, first in 1971. He shared his knowledge of anatomy at various locations during the wartime evacuation. Although not hold high academic titles, he earned respect from both Russian and Vietnamese experts for his skillful and meticulous work on the embalmed body, often referred to affectionately as the person with "golden hands" to describe how skillfully he could work on the body just like a pianist. Despite challenges during the wartime, he always empathized with Vietnam's difficulties. Notably, he was compassionate, helpful, and provided practical guidance for Vietnamese colleagues.

Continuing his father's legacy, Mr. Ginkin Boris, born in 1973, is the only one from the Lenin Mausoleum Institute who followed in his father's footsteps. In 2006, he successfully defended his doctoral thesis at the age of 33. Like his father, Mr. Ginkin Boris is always cheerful, humorous, and enthusiastic with colleagues. He is a young scientist with a profound understanding of morphology, specializing in the morphological study of bones. He visited Vietnam three times for collaborative research, making significant contributions to projects between the Mausoleum Management Board and the Lenin Mausoleum Institute from 2000 to the present.

If we were to recount the achievements of the Russian Federation's medical experts, it would probably be impossible to cover them all. To conclude this article, I would like to summarize some of the lessons I have learned from the medical experts of the Russian Federation.

Scientific Thinking

Perhaps they have inherited a long-standing scientific tradition from Russia, so in their work and interactions, I observe that they always exhibit deep, fundamental, long-term, and practical thinking. Their approach not only aids in accomplishing immediate tasks but also ensures long-term development. Therefore, I often advise my colleagues at Institute 69 to pay attention to combining the scientific thinking and meticulousness of the Russian experts with the skillful hands of Vietnamese doctors.

Discipline, Responsibility, and Professionalism

In the decades of working with them, I have seen that task assignment and organization are very scientific - no noise, no duplication, no negligence. I have not witnessed any expert taking personal initiatives without the approval of the leadership. When given a task, there is always concern and effort to complete it in the best way possible.

While there may be intense debates during task execution, once an agreement is reached and the truth is recognized, there is full cooperation and mutual respect.

Unity and Collaboration

In many years of working together, I have not seen any signs of disunity, factions, or mutual criticism within their organization. On the contrary, there is sharing of experiences between the experienced and newcomers, collaboration, and coordination among team members.

Wholehearted Assistance to Vietnamese Colleagues

The extensive lectures on the specialized field of body preservation, the materials left by Institute 69 after their teaching sessions in Hanoi, and the wealth of knowledge that they shared and passed down to us all reflect their dedication.

No Comparison, No Calculations for Enjoyment

If not mentioned, many people might not understand why they helped us in the past, went far from home, stayed away for six months without bringing their family along, and still did not complain. Each month, everyone received an allowance of 100 dong, equivalent to the salary of a non-experienced officer. Although the allowance was not high, I have not heard any expert complain. On the contrary, everyone has always been dedicated to the assigned tasks. The allowance amount was proposed by them, not agreed upon by both parties.

By 1994, the collaboration mechanism had changed. In Moscow, when discussing direct collaboration between the Mausoleum Management Board and the Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute, the issue of the salary for experts working in Hanoi was raised. We suggested that they proactively state the salary for the experts. There was no difficulty in reaching this agreement because we did not place excessive weight on the salary, and they, on the other hand, valued the relationship, making assistance to us your primary intention. During a meeting with Comrade Ho Huan Nghiem, the former Deputy Minister of Trade at that time and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Vietnam to the Russian Federation, after hearing the salary requested by Comrade Nguyen Quang Tan, the Head of the Management Board, Comrade Ambassador said, "I did not expect that in such difficult times, you would propose such a friendly salary”.

At this point, I am reminded of the days of the mighty Soviet Union, where the Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute, then known as the Moscow Institute of Molecular Biology, was prestigious and highly regarded. I recall the days when the large-scale production of medicine, the revitalization of President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum from 1975 to 1990 in Hanoi, always saw the enthusiastic participation of dozens of Soviet experts. All modern equipment, machinery, chemicals, solutions, and other medical tools were brought by you to assist us. Let's imagine the difficulties and shortages our country faced at that time. Without our Soviet and Russian friends, how could our mission have been accomplished?

Today, our renewal efforts have achieved significant results. The long-term preservation and absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body have reached 40 years. Personally, I am grateful and remember all the Russian scientists who directly assisted us without hesitation during the challenging times of war and even during the harsh period of embargo. Among them, many have passed away, many are elderly with declining health, but continuing the tradition, many Russian friends are still standing side by side with us in the mission of preserving and long-term safeguarding President Ho Chi Minh’s body. I believe that the contributions of our friends are immeasurable and represent invaluable assistance that will endure over time. I hope that not only we, but also future generations, will forever be grateful to our Russian friends - the medical experts - for their invaluable assistance in preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body.

A SCIENTIST WITH GREAT CONTRIBUTION TO THE LONG-TERM PRESERVATION AND ABSOLUTE SAFETY PROTECTION OF PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH’S BODY

Colonel LAI VAN HOA

Director of Institute 69

MY CX-73 TEAM

Major General DAO HUU NGHIA

Former Head of the Mausoleum Management Board, and Commander

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Protection Command

Some of us may not be familiar with the origin of the common name of a special technical team under the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command: CX-73 Team. However, we - the first members of the team - understood it very early. It is the abbreviation of two Russian words, roughly translated: Permanent Preservation Equipment for President Ho Chi Minh’s body, associated with the design year: 1973.

CX-73 is a combination of technical devices primarily designed to create and maintain the necessary conditions for the long-term preservation of the body in terms of medical and to serve funeral ceremonies. The special technical team named CX-73 is responsible for managing and operating this set of technical equipment.

I received the assignment to CX-73 Team on August 29, 1975, the day the Mausoleum was inaugurated and the first tribute ceremony for Uncle Ho took place at the Mausoleum in the historical Ba Dinh Square. At this time, CX-73 Team was still under the Combat Engineer Headquarters, with Senior Lieutenant Nguyen Trung Thanh as the team leader, an electrical engineer who grew up as a worker, experienced, eager to learn, dynamic, and creative. The two technical assistants of the team are automation engineer Hoa Van Thuong and lighting engineer Nguyen Duc Hoa. Both graduated with honors from the Soviet Union, mastering the theory, and gaining initial professional experience during equipment installation. The team also includes three skilled and diligent workers: Vu Xuan Long, Le Manh Hung, and Tran Xuan Muoi.

Due to the special importance of the task, in addition to CX-73 Team, there is also a team of experts who regularly participate and are reinforced during major maintenance occasions. These are specialists who have been involved in the design, installation, and operation of all three mausoleums: Lenin's Mausoleum, Dmitrov's Mausoleum, and President Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, both theoretically proficient and experienced in practical applications.

When I took the assignment to CX-73 Team, besides the great honor of being close to Uncle Ho, meeting him regularly, and directly contributing to his care and protection, I also felt the happiness of a young technical officer in a favorable working environment. The equipment, machinery, vehicles, and specialized tools within the scope of the Management and Operation Team, while new and diverse, are modern and closely aligned with the knowledge acquired during my university education. What could be more fulfilling than grasping, exploring, and conquering what I am passionate about, pursuing? I am truly drawn to the work. In addition to the field of measurement and automatic adjustment, I take the opportunity to understand the structure, principles, and working modes of the entire system. The equipment CX-73 Team is designed in a unified manner with advanced technical expertise, applying research results from various fields: electrical-electronics, automation, lighting, thermoelectric refrigeration, precision mechanics, etc. The specialized nature of the equipment, beyond the task requirements, is also due to their design and production tailored for a specific purpose, demanding close and precise coordination during operation. The CX-73 equipment system is the product of collaboration from many institutes, universities, and renowned manufacturing facilities of the Soviet Union, representing the intelligence, emotions, and expertise of Soviet scientists, experts, and technical workers dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh.

I quickly familiarized myself with the work. The working conditions are favorable, and the documentation and specialized books are quite comprehensive. There are experts to guide, and most importantly, alongside me is a strong collective, strong in both will and capacity. The team is close-knit, open-minded, and caring for each other. Each member of the team is assigned specific tasks, but many tasks are only completed with the concentrated intellect and effort of the entire team.

Team leader Nguyen Trung Thanh always oversees the work meticulously, knows how to select people for assignments, and works to both understand and check, setting new requirements when necessary. He is rarely satisfied with the results achieved. Working under his command, we always have to strive, always have to explore and be creative. He is also someone who knows how to encourage at the right time after each success or share when subordinates temporarily face difficulties.

One time, the visit to Uncle Ho's Mausoleum had just started for about half an hour when the entire shift of the team became anxious because one of the four refrigeration units stopped working. This incident occurred too early for a device with high reliability and durability in terms of theory and manufacturing technology, while it had only been operational for a few hundred hours. Normally, according to the procedures and instructions, when such an incident occurs, it is necessary to suspend the visit. After a few minutes of discussion with the expert team, considering additional requirements for the solemnity of Uncle Ho's visit and the maximum working capacity of the equipment, Team leader Nguyen Trung Thanh calmly instructed the on-duty team to continue maintaining the operation of the entire system to serve the visit. He instructed the team to closely monitor the temperature inside the area where Uncle Ho’s body was stored and lower the external air cooling temperature. On the other hand, he assigned tasks to the remaining personnel to prepare vehicles, tools, and materials to handle the situation if it worsened. Time passed slowly. We nervously watched the temperature recording of the malfunctioning refrigeration unit along with the increasing temperature inside the area where Uncle Ho lay, worrying about the moment when the visit might have to be stopped. But what we feared did not happen. The temperature only increased within the permissible range and began to decrease gradually. Just as he predicted during the exchange with the experts: the other three working refrigeration units, under a greater load, were still capable of replacing the malfunctioning fourth unit.

That time, Uncle Ho's visit proceeded normally, like any other visit. None of the visitors outside knew that, inside, in the CX-73 area, an incident was occurring. Both we and the experts, who had never encountered such a situation before, remained calm, confident, and in control of the equipment.

From that afternoon until late at night, under the guidance of the expert team, we performed a final technical status check and removed the faulty refrigeration unit, replacing it with a spare one. After several trial runs, everything was fine. We expressed our gratitude to the expert team and bid farewell. I shook hands with Team Leader Thanh, looking at his slightly rugged appearance and expression, I still recognized a truly gentle smile. The next morning, Uncle Ho's visit proceeded normally again.

Compared to the Team Leader, the three technical assistants - Hoa Van Thuong, Nguyen Duc Hoa, and I - had a more convenient work and study history. Despite the busy workload, whether day or night, under the intense summer sun or the cold rain of winter, we have never hesitated to carry out our tasks.

At that time, just a few years after the Mausoleum project was put into operation, Major General - Commander Tran Kinh Chi directly assigned the task to CX-73 Team to find a lighting solution for the main block of the Mausoleum project. Initially, the Mausoleum was not equipped with a separate lighting system. The project was only illuminated by two 32-meter lamp posts on the north-south axis of Hung Vuong Street with very limited overall brightness. In practice, it was evident that the Mausoleum needed clearer lighting to reflect its true appearance and enhance the inherent beauty of a unique architectural structure, both modern and ethnic, during the evening and at night.

Taking on this additional task, with the same limited time and budget, making use of the available resources, tools at hand, we immediately focused on surveying, designing, and testing. Many lunch breaks were skipped, and many nights were spent working very late, especially during the testing and adjustment phases. On hot summer nights, with heavy and cumbersome equipment, high-powered lamps, there was nothing to hinder the youthful energy once we understood the importance of our work, our inclination for exploration, and our desire to contribute.

In the report on the results, the overall lighting plan for the main block of Uncle Ho's Mausoleum received some positive feedback. The Mausoleum was illuminated more clearly, harmonizing with the environmental landscape. The upward beams of light added to the grandeur of the architectural structure. The placement of lights was carefully calculated, ensuring no impact on the aesthetics of the project.

We understood that the achieved results were just the beginning. To have a complete design, sufficient investment conditions, and future implementation, there would be much more work to be done. However, one thing was certain: the scientific foundations, evaluation methods, design principles, experience, and effective lighting techniques gained during this project would serve as resources for us to confidently contribute to future lighting projects for the Mausoleum in the coming years.

Just like other technical equipment systems of the Mausoleum project, due to the urgent construction circ*mstances, the CX-73 equipment was not fully installed or installed but not according to the design requirements. In addition to the tasks of management, operation, maintenance, and repair of machinery and equipment, the whole team devoted a lot of effort, along with experts, to implement additional design, supplementation, or new installations. The construction work progressed smoothly thanks to the team's ability to absorb, skilled hands, and especially the diligence and hard work of electrician Tran Xuan Muoi and two mechanical technicians: Vu Xuan Long and Le Manh Hung. Besides the assigned tasks, they frequently helped and supported each other, especially when additional assistance, transportation, or additional manpower was needed. They were true craftsmen who excelled in multiple skills, able to take turns in their work, without hesitation towards any requests from colleagues. They also met the requirements for caution, meticulousness in task execution, and the necessary attitude for technicians working in the CX-73 environment.

Usually, during the major annual maintenance, the work of the three technicians in the team was both extensive in volume, urgent in progress, and had to ensure the best quality.

That year, in addition to the usual routine maintenance tasks, the three technicians were also assigned two additional tasks: installing a new dehumidifying fan and supplementing the signal path-stopping position of the elevator in the CX-73 equipment. These were initiatives of Team Leader Thanh, after being tested successfully, he decided to officially install them. They systematically carried out the work, skillfully preparing tools and equipment, coordinating cable laying, connecting, and installing equipment racks. The ideas on the design drawings of the technical officers were taking shape in reality thanks to the knowledge and skilled hands of the technicians. The work was captivating, and they willingly worked overtime, hoping that at the end of each day, the work would be neatly completed, only stopping when the Team leader requested a break to preserve energy for the next day. Often, after finishing a day's work and cleaning up tools and materials, they realized they had worked continuously for many hours in the cold environment, feeling exhausted and hungry. Leaving the construction site, under the late-night starry sky of autumn, the figures and faces of the three artisans Hung, Long, Muoi were unmistakably "craftsmen," very robust and simple. Someone among them was humming the song "Night Stars”.

In every success of the CX-73 Team, there is a significant contribution from the Soviet expert team. In the early years, alongside the team, there were electrical engineers Nicolai, Associate Doctors of Automation Igorov and Utskin, automation engineer Igorvov. During the periodic maintenance, additional engineers were assigned, including temperature measurement engineer Iakhin, semiconductor refrigeration Doctor Leonov, mechanical engineers Kamuskin, Ixotov, two female lighting engineers Tanhia, Lena, and mechanical worker Karalov. They were talented experts, yet very humble and approachable. We understood each other and worked harmoniously. There was mutual respect and equal communication. As experts, they guided and helped us a lot professionally, but they also listened to our opposing opinions, ready to accept if convincingly presented.

In the initial months of operating the CX-73 equipment, despite strictly following procedures, the temperature inside the area where President Ho Chi Minh’s body was stored tended to exceed the allowable limit after the memorial service. To control this, adjustments were made forcibly within the working capacity of the thermal power refrigeration plates. We sensed that something was not right. After monitoring the temperature and humidity relationship inside and outside the area, discussing the causes and solutions with the experts and operations chief, including Ravin, the Team leader of CX-73 officially proposed adjusting the operation process to ensure external humidity outside CX-73 during memorial services. Accordingly, thirty minutes before the end of the memorial service, the temperature in front of the cooling fan of the hot plate of the thermal power refrigeration plates needed to be maintained lower than before by half a degree Celsius. This was a proposal with sufficient theoretical and practical basis, receiving high consensus from the experts, fundamentally addressing the risk of exceeding the temperature limit in CX-73.

Outside of work, despite being from different regions, with different interests and circ*mstances, the members of the CX-73 Team lived harmoniously. At that time, most of us were single, arranged to eat and sleep together in the same room, preserved the meal for someone who returned late, pooled funds for communal meals, were ready to share a bowl of pho, happily lending each other bikes, or borrowing money if someone had a late-night appointment with a wife or girlfriend but faced a broken vehicle or a shortage of money.

During trips to Vietnam for work, the experts still brought small gifts for us. We welcomed them with joyful banquets, featuring Vietnamese fried spring rolls, dried fish, and Russian vodka. Amidst the strong alcoholic scent, we all sang familiar Vietnamese and Russian songs.

That was my CX-73 team, leaving a strong impression in the memories of my youth, as a newly graduated engineer returning from abroad to work on the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum project. Many years have passed, and more things may be left behind, but the working environment, my teammates, and colleagues from the CX-73 Team back then, now, and forever will always stay with me.

THE EARLY DAYS OF CONDUCTING FLAG RAISING CEREMONY IN FRONT OF PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH'S MAUSOLEUM

Colonel DANG NAM DIEN

Deputy Political Commissar

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

At the end of 1999, in preparation for propagating the commemoration of significant holidays in Vietnam in the year 2000, the Japanese television channel NHK contacted the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Management Board to film some activities, including the flag-raising ceremony in front of the Mausoleum. Unfortunately, after they had set up the equipment and we had completed the preparations, they decided not to capture images of our soldiers performing the flag-raising ceremony in front of the Mausoleum. As someone accompanying the journalists and witnessing their decision not to record the soldiers raising the flag, I felt puzzled and discussed my thoughts with them. The head of the filming team then said, "I thought you already had the ceremony for raising and lowering the flag?" I immediately understood that their decision not to capture our images meant we did not have the proper ceremony, and the soldiers of Unit 275 only carried out the flag-raising action.

The next morning, I reported directly to the Chief of the High Command about NHK Japan not capturing our unit's flag-raising. Upon hearing my report, Major General, Commander Nguyen Quang Tan contemplated for a moment and seemed to recall something. He quickly said, "We need to have a formal ceremony for saluting and lowering the flag in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum." With many years of experience working under his guidance, when I heard him express such thoughts, I was certain that he had an intention for a new plan.

Then, as I predicted, at the beginning of 2000, Commander Nguyen Quang Tan proactively proposed to the Standing Committee and the High Command a plan to visit China to exchange experiences on organizing activities at the Memorial House of Chairman Mao Zedong. With the approval of the Standing Committee, the unit reported to the Prime Minister and the Ministry of National Defense. Major General Nguyen Quang Tan, the Head of the Mausoleum Management Board and concurrently the Commander, led a delegation of 5 officials from the Management Board to visit China. This was the first official delegation from the unit to visit China, marking the beginning of a new phase in our relationship with you. From then on, almost every year, we organized visits to China, where many activities were similar to the unit's mission, with officials at various levels taking turns to lead the delegations.

Upon arriving in China, the delegation was warmly welcomed by the Vietnamese Embassy in Beijing, which organized an extensive and impressive working program with the Management Bureau of Chairman Mao Zedong's Memorial. It was known that the delegation wished to witness your performance at the flag-raising and lowering ceremony in Tiananmen Square. Ambassador Nguyen Hong Phuc instructed the administrative department of the embassy to coordinate with the Chinese government for convenient travel arrangements. Since the Vietnamese Embassy is quite far from Tiananmen Square, they performed the flag-raising and lowering ceremony astronomically. The morning flag-raising ceremony took place when the first rays of the sun shone on Chinese soil, and the evening flag-lowering ceremony coincided with the beginning of the tide withdrawing from the Chinese coastline. Therefore, the delegation had to wake up early and depart at 3 AM. Although they left very early, comrade Nguyen Nhu Ly, the private driver of the Ambassador, had to speed up to ensure that our delegation could witness your flag-raising ceremony from start to finish. Later, upon the Commander's return, I heard him share his thoughts: "The people and tourists who come to observe the flag-raising ceremony in Tiananmen Square are numerous. Our delegation had to stand from a distance to observe the movements of the Chinese People's Liberation Army soldiers. The soldiers looked very beautiful, and their movements were precise.”.

After a short period, upon the return of the delegation, the Chief of the High Command assigned the Operations Department to take charge and direct Unit 275 in selecting soldiers from Unit 1 for daily flag-raising ceremonies in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The approach was to conduct training, share experiences, and simultaneously earnestly develop a reporting plan for the Ministry of National Defense and the Prime Minister. By mid-November 2000, the basic preparations were completed. The unit organized a conference to report to relevant agencies of the Ministry of National Defense and the Government Office on the daily flag-raising and lowering ceremony in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Following the conference, the Office actively coordinated with the Social Affairs Department and the Government Office so that, when there was an official opinion from the Prime Minister, everything could be urgently implemented. However, since this was a new ceremony, all levels were very cautious in reviewing it before presenting it to the Prime Minister for a decision. Initially, the ceremony was planned for January 01 of the Gregorian calendar but was later moved to the anniversary of Hung Kings (March 10 of the Lunar calendar)...

During the waiting period for the decision, in late April 2001, as agreed between us, a delegation of officials from the Mausoleum Management Board, led by me (at that time, the Chief of the Office), went to China for a study visit. At the task assignment meeting for the delegation, Commander Nguyen Quang Tan and Party Secretary of Unit 969 Nguyen Ngoc Lam instructed the delegation to continue visiting and learning in China. The focus was on organizing the flag-raising and lowering ceremony, understanding what needed to be learned and applied for the specific ceremonial nature of Vietnam. We were to learn from them but not to mechanically replicate the ceremony. With that heavy responsibility, our delegation planned to study their flag-raising and lowering ceremony in detail. Immediately upon arrival in Beijing, the delegation requested the Military Attaché of the Vietnamese Embassy in China to arrange for a direct observation of their ceremony (as the previous delegation had to stand far away to observe). After obtaining all three types of documents provided by their relevant authorities – Beijing Traffic Management, Security Bureau, and the Headquarters of the Beijing Military Region – our delegation was allowed to stand close to the flagpole for direct observation. Comrade Nguyen Phuc Tri, Deputy Commander in the delegation, praised the ceremonial movements and proper procedures of their honor guard when conducting the flag-raising ceremony. However, given the low height of the flagpole in front of Tiananmen Gate and their smaller flag, their ceremonial movements were simpler and different from what we had practiced. Nevertheless, something that constantly troubled us was that they kept the public at a distance, and if we arranged the audience similarly at Ba Dinh Square in Vietnam, it would not be suitable for the situation. We all agreed to gather this information and report to the superiors in the Commanders upon returning to Vietnam.

In early May 2001, the good news came quickly: the Prime Minister had agreed to assign the Mausoleum Management Board to organize the daily flag-raising and lowering ceremony in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The Government Office's letter emphasized that the Ministry of National Defense was responsible for guiding the Mausoleum High Command to carry out the ceremony with solemnity and seriousness. The first ceremony took place at exactly 6:30 AM on May 19, 2001.

On the morning of May 19, in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, hundreds of officers, soldiers, workers from various units within the Mausoleum Management Board, along with senior citizens from the Elderly Association, officials, youth union members, and children from the Hanoi Youth Union gathered to witness the sacred and solemn moment of the flag-raising ceremony in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The military band played the marching tune named “Marching under the flag” as 37 heroic soldiers marched onto the square (later, the number of soldiers was reduced to 34, symbolizing the 34 officers and soldiers in the Vietnam Liberation Army propaganda team, the precursor of the heroic Vietnam People's Army today). All movements of the officers and soldiers were meticulously and seriously trained, with no errors whatsoever, no matter how small. As the commander's vigorous command ended, the national anthem resounded, and the majestic music of the military band added to the solemn atmosphere of the ceremony. After the flag-raising ceremony, the soldiers marched in unison, following the order to march solemnly, saluting Uncle Ho before starting a new day of serving the people and international visitors who came to pay respects.

Thus, from now on, a new ceremonial form was officially carried out in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, connecting the sacred symbol of the fatherland – the red flag with a yellow star – with beloved Uncle Ho, the great leader of our Party and people. Each time witnessing those sacred moments, I am reminded of the early days when the officers, workers, and soldiers in the unit were determined to fulfill every task so that the ceremony could be conducted with solemnity and significance, just as it is today. I would like to express my gratitude to the Standing Committee, the High Command – Staff of the entire unit for thinking and implementing a task that the entire Party, people, and army highly appreciate. The national flag and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum will endure alongside the nation.

HARNESSING INNER STRENGTH FROM THE SMALLEST ACTIONS

Colonel NGUYEN TRONG KHANH

Deputy Commander - Chief of Staff

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

In 1977, I bid farewell to my homeland and set off to study at the Voroshilovgrad Vocational School of Mechanical Engineering in Southern Ukraine, specializing in mechanical engineering. After five years of diligent study, in 1982, I graduated and returned to my homeland. Like many other military personnel, I eagerly anticipated applying my knowledge immediately in service to the Fatherland. While awaiting reserve officer training, in August 1982, the Ministry of National Defense directed us to the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command to strengthen the translation force during the periodic maintenance of the Mausoleum.

Born and raised in Hanoi, I visited the Mausoleum on numerous occasions, making it a source of pride for me. Even when studying abroad, whenever I had the opportunity to introduce my Vietnamese homeland to international friends, I always highlighted Hanoi with its sparkling Turtle Tower overlooking the emerald waters of Hoan Kiem Lake, especially the revered Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. At that time, I didn't fully understand the Mausoleum's structure or the unit's mission; I was only assigned to reinforce the work at the Mausoleum. Nevertheless, the sense of honor bestowed upon me was immense. Alongside the joy, I couldn't help but feel anxious, unsure if I could fulfill the task. Upon arriving at the Command, all my worries quickly dissipated, replaced by a warm and open atmosphere from everyone in the unit. We successfully completed the reinforcement mission during that maintenance period.

In April 1983, after completing the reserve officer training, I was officially assigned to the Mausoleum High Command by the Ministry of National Defense. This marked a significant turning point in my life. From then on, I followed in my father's footsteps, participating in the lifelong mission of safeguarding the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh’s body.

In the High Command, I was appointed as the technical assistant to the Technical Department. Here, I had the opportunity to become acquainted with and access modern machinery from the Soviet Union, which served the Mausoleum project. Despite my mechanical engineering background and familiarity with various large and modern machines, I couldn't help but be overwhelmed by the complex system of equipment provided by the Soviet Union for the Mausoleum project. Over time, my appreciation for the sentiments and respect that the Party, the State, and the Soviet people had for President Ho Chi Minh and his Mausoleum deepened.

At the time of 1986, after more than ten years in operation, the machinery system of construction had many deteriorating components that required upgrades and replacements, especially the water droplet separation plates of the central air conditioning system. To ensure the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh’s body, in addition to regular healthcare for him, maintaining precise control over the temperature, cleanliness, and aseptic conditions of the central air conditioning system played a crucial role. In the entire air processing line of the central air conditioning unit, each component and each stage was closely related to ensure air quality met medical requirements, disallowing any part of the central air conditioning unit to be idle or malfunctioning pending replacement. The water droplet separation system's task was to separate and retain all the water condensed from steam in the cooling coils and after the high-pressure humidification chamber, preventing air-carrying moisture from passing through the electrostatic filter. The electrostatic filter, operating at a high voltage of 12,000V, would eliminate mold and retain all bacteria and dust before being directed to the medical rooms and the visiting area where President Ho Chi Minh rested. In the case of malfunction or inefficient operation of the water droplet separation plates, even a small amount of water passing through the electrostatic filter at high voltage could cause electrical sparks, necessitating the suspension of the electrostatic filter section. This meant that bacteria and mold would go untreated, directly affecting the mission of safeguarding President Ho Chi Minh’s body. The water droplet separation system with multiple plates had a unique structure, where each plate had to be continuously immersed in water for 24/24 hours in a humid environment. The material used was galvanized steel, resulting in an average lifespan of only 7-8 years, making manufacturing and replacement challenging. Therefore, the command's task was to research and develop water droplet separation plates that met technical requirements and had a long lifespan. This was also the concern of the technical staff. After temporarily handling the system for operation, Mr. Vo Van Tinh, the air conditioning engineer, said: 'I always harbored the intention of creating water droplet separation plates using stainless steel to avoid repairs.' After discussions and careful consideration, we decided to propose the idea to the Chief of the Technical Department and the High Command for investment in producing a test plate in Vietnam meeting the technical standards to replace all the water droplet separation plates for the air conditioning system.

Following the High Command's instructions, I directly received and organized the task. After presenting the manufacturing issue to various large military mechanical factories, it was not successful due to the difficulties in manufacturing technology, with low quantities, equipment investment, and numerous technical solutions. The final stop was Factory Z157. The Director, Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Canh, and the technical staff began researching multiple options for manufacturing. Despite successive failures, the most challenging aspect remained the manufacturing technology. The more difficult it became, the more it spurred our determination to research. After nearly a year of hard work with countless experiments, we finally had water droplet separation plates made of high-quality steel according to standards. After examination and discussion, Soviet technical experts highly praised the equipment's quality and the expertise of the Vietnamese technical team, deciding to provide us with steel plates for manufacturing water droplet separation plates in Vietnam. However, to complete the machinery and achieve proficiency in production, it took several more years.

In 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed unexpectedly, an event no one anticipated, and the aid for the Mausoleum project was no longer available. However, the equipment and machinery of the independent and self-reliant spirit had come into existence; it was one of Vietnam's intellectual products, a testament to the independent and self-reliant spirit. This contributed to the technical unit's staff gradually rising to become masters of technical equipment, even in challenging circ*mstances when we had to stand firmly on our own feet. Consider this, if back then we hadn't been determined to research and produce those devices in Vietnam, undoubtedly, when the Soviet Union collapsed, the replacement process would have faced numerous difficulties. Reflecting on those memories, I want to convey one thing: Be self-reliant in even the smallest tasks.

FOREST BELT OF THE K9 HISTORICAL RELIC AREA – DA CHONG

Colonel TO NGOC CHUNG

Head of Logistics

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

In early October 1995, in my new role as the Deputy Head of Logistics, Party Secretary, appointed by the Head of Logistics to oversee Unit 285 under the Logistics Department, I attended the quarterly review for the third quarter with Unit 285 at K9, Ba Vi, Ha Tay. During the report on the protection of the K9 historical site, what worried me the most and occupied my thoughts was the vast area of D-K9, covering 60.5 hectares with 1,200 meters of trails, and a ditch separating it closely from Lien Bu village, Minh Quang commune, Ba Vi, which was frequently targeted for illegal logging. The Center for Forest Tree Genetics of the Vietnam Academy of Forest Science, responsible for reforestation projects in K9, had planted trees several times but failed to protect them. The hills remained bare, and wild vegetation continued to grow unchecked. In the adjacent areas, the local residents were still facing many difficulties.

At that time, the Command team of Unit 285 consisted of Lieutenant Colonel Dang Thuc as the Unit Commander, Major Nguyen Duc Quang as the Deputy Political Chief, and Major Thai Van Dot as the Deputy Chief with concerns. The comrades suggested that the leadership and command of the Logistics Department should report to the High Command for assistance in reinforcing personnel and installing barbed wire fences for protection. As the leader and commander of the agency at that time and in a new position, I was not fully aware of the situation, so I requested the Unit Command Team to conduct a direct on-site survey of the entire D area. Following the patrol trail along the Da River from Lien Bu village to the Ba Vi Farm, going up Route 87 to Che, there were only four households (Mr. Mon, Mr. Bui, Mr. Thu, and Mr. Luc). All four households were veteran soldiers, former military personnel who had been discharged and settled here to cultivate and build a livelihood. There was a straight road leading from the middle of Lien Bu village directly to the center of the D area. According to the report from Unit 285, every day dozens of local residents brought herds of buffalo and cattle to graze, cutting wood and damaging the forest trees in the area. The unit had actively tried to prevent this but had not achieved effective results. Numerous incidents of prevention and resolution had occurred, despite the active support of unit leaders, local authorities in Minh Quang commune, and Lien Bu village. However, an effective solution to protect the D area forest has not been found.

It is evident that at this time, there needs to be a new direction, a coordinated proactive approach from all levels, from grassroots to the High Command and local authorities. The key point for protection work now is the 'people's hearts fence.' However, to ensure the peace of the people's hearts and protection for the unit, a new mechanism and policy must be established to help the local residents. This is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed. The day after, we worked with the Party Committee and the People's Committee of Minh Quang commune. I remember it was a heavy rainy day, and the road from Che to Minh Quang was muddy due to the many trucks transporting ore from Che. There was no asphalt road, and after 12 kilometers through submerged streams, it took us nearly 10 hours to reach the commune's People's Committee. Comrade Dinh Ngoc Thu - Chairman, Comrade Nguyen Anh Xuan - Vice Chairman, Comrade Ngo Van Chien - Secretary, and Comrade Dinh Xuan Khi - Chairman of the Veterans Association of the commune arranged the meeting and actively discussed solutions with our unit. During the discussion, many opinions suggested tightening security, adding more guard posts, regularly assigning people for surveillance, opening the forest for local residents to collect wood, leaves, and letting cattle graze for two sessions per week. At that time, the local leaders also had no suitable solution. I asked for the opinion of Comrade Dinh Xuan Khi - Chairman of the Veterans Association of the commune: If our unit sought the help of the Veterans Association in taking care of and protecting the forest, could they handle it? Comrade Khi stated that the commune could not guarantee it, but if the commune leadership mobilized and delegated the task to the Veterans Association of Lien Bu village, they could do it under the condition of reasonable support policies.

Since working with the commune's leadership and government, we had many concerns. I sought the opinion of Comrade Hoang Kim Khuong - Head of Logistics, with his experience and high sense of responsibility. He supported my proposal to boldly and necessarily establish a new mechanism. However, he emphasized that the K9 historical site is a national forest managed by our unit, and there is no precedent for assigning work within the area to external entities. Comrade needed to carefully consider and study the state's documents on land and forest allocation policies to the people. He advised boldly advocating within the unit, seizing the opinions of each section head.

After months of contemplation, research, and reviewing all legal documents related to forest protection, including government decrees on land allocation to organizations, households, and individuals for long-term forestry purposes, it became apparent that applying these regulations to the historical forest area within the prohibited national forest zone in Ba Vi required strict protection and could not be handed over to individuals. I, along with the logistics agency, consulted with experts from the Vietnam Academy of Forest Science, including Prof, Dr. Le Dinh Kha - Director; Engineer Nguyen Van Thao - Deputy Director; Engineer Do Van Nhan - Head of the Planning Department of the Forest Tree Genetics Center; Engineer Nguyen Dinh Hai - Experimental Team Leader. These colleagues had invested a lot in tree breeding and planting for the unit, but without success, they were very enthusiastic. They suggested that the logistics department promptly report to the Military Command for the new mechanism.

Summarizing the opinions of the unit, local authorities, and the Vietnam Academy of Forest Science, I met with Colonel Do Van Khoan - Party Secretary of the Unit 969, Deputy Political Commissar assigned by the High Command to oversee logistics work (1992 - 1997). I reported and proposed that the unit commander provide guidance. Comrade Khoan was also concerned, pointing out that this was a new issue, and the logistics department needed to seek the opinions of the Military Command to discuss in the Standing Committee. On December 16, 1995, I submitted a request to the High Command to attend the solidarity conference of the people and the military on December 22, 1995, organized annually by the High Command. I also reported the proposal from the logistics department, suggesting that the High Command approve handing over the planted forest to the Veterans Association of Minh Quang commune for care and protection, which would have many advantages. Commander Nguyen Quang Tan pondered for a moment, then smiled and asked me: 'Explain on what basis do you dare to propose handing over the forest to the local area? Will there be any loss of land? What's in it for us, and what does the local area gain?”. Indeed, these opinions had been brewing for a long time. I boldly reported to the Commander: The government had issued Decree No. 02/ND-CP dated January 15, 1994, which stipulated the allocation of land and forests to organizations, households, and individuals for long-term forestry purposes. The logistics agency had worked with the local authorities of Minh Quang commune, the People's Committee of Ba Vi district, and Secretary Nguyen Danh Chu, Chairman Tran Duc Kien, and Standing Deputy Chairman Nguyen Manh Phong strongly supported the proposal. The Forest Tree Genetics Center of the Vietnam Academy of Forest Science also expressed its desire, and the neighboring households within the Veterans Association of Lien Bu village, Minh Quang commune, were hopeful. If the High Command approved this new proposal, the unit would benefit significantly.

The direct benefit for the people is that we invest in seedlings, fertilizers, and organize the initial planting, then hand it over to the Veterans Association to take over, care for, and protect. They do not lose capital but receive public care and protection. They are allowed to cultivate under the forest canopy, on fertile land, and agricultural products generate income to address hunger and poverty reduction in the mountainous region. They have the responsibility to take good care of the planted forest, prevent destruction, and they will fence off the forest land themselves, ensuring that cattle do not cause damage. The long-term benefit is that the 'people's fence' is strong, allowing us to implement policies to eradicate hunger and reduce poverty in the Ba Vi mountainous area, while the forest land in Zone D - K9 is preserved, cared for, and protected in the long run. We adhere to the Party's, State's, and Government's policies. After hearing my presentation, the commander did not conclude but reminded us to further study relevant legal documents. This new direction and new mechanism will open up many other opportunities in the K9 area and Hanoi. The commander said that this matter would be discussed and decided within the High Command. I bid farewell to the Chief, feeling relieved that I could share my thoughts on a new topic, a new mission, and anticipating the result.

The solidarity conference of the people and the military on December 22, 1995, was solemnly held at Zone A - K9. The participants included representatives from the Provincial People's Mobilization Committee of Ha Tay, the Secretary, and Chairman of the district authorities of Ba Vi; the Secretary and Chairman of four communes (Minh Quang, Thuan My, Ba Trai in Ba Vi district, and Dong Luan commune in Thanh Thuy district, Phu Tho); the Forest Tree Genetics Center of the Vietnam Academy of Forest Science; Ba Vi Farm... Co-chaired by Major General, Commander Nguyen Quang Tan, and the Secretary of Ba Vi district - Nguyen Danh Chu, the conference heard the report from the Logistics Department, evaluated one year of work, and listened to the opinions of village leaders and the authorities of the communes expressing the wishes of the people. The unit directly managing K9 is Unit 285 under the Logistics Department. I paid special attention to the opinion of Secretary Nguyen Danh Chu of Ba Vi district, who supported the proposal of the Logistics Department and suggested that the High Command not allocate land but assign the planted forest to the local area through the Veterans Association of the communes around K9 for care and protection to assist the unit.

On that day, Commander Nguyen Quang Tan concluded: According to the proposal of the Logistics Department and the opinions of the local authorities, the High Command agreed to implement the new direction, assigning the forest area planted around the K9 zone to the local area through the Veterans Association for care and protection. The Logistics Department is tasked with negotiating and signing contracts with the local authorities to thoroughly prepare for the tree-planting ceremony in early spring 1996 and hand over the care and protection responsibilities to the local area. That day, I and my comrades in Unit 285 Command were very happy; indeed, the strategic planning and proposal from the department received strong support from the local authorities and the High Command.

It can be said that this is a profound memory of the advisory work proposing logistics solutions for the High Command to decide on a completely new direction, a mechanism that is suitable for the entire management and increase in production and services of the High Command, yielding much greater effectiveness in the future.

To turn the new direction into reality, the Logistics Department actively directed Unit 285 to coordinate closely with the Forest Tree Genetics Center of the Vietnam Academy of Forest Science to prepare seeds, materials, provide basic tree planting training, sign contracts with Unit 275 Training Team to prepare the ground, dig tree holes, apply fertilizer, and spread lime powder into each hole. A contract was also signed with the leadership of Minh Quang commune to prepare personnel, especially the commune leaders, to ensure the full participation of the traditional cultural gong team of the Muong ethnic group from the commune, which had just participated in the national cultural competition in Thanh Hoa and won second prize. They were going to participate in the grand opening ceremony in early 1996.

I remember very clearly that on the morning of April 04, 1996, at an altitude of 40.5 meters near Lien Bu village, Minh Quang commune, a large banner with the theme "Tree-planting ceremony in gratitude to Uncle Ho, Spring 1996" was hung, along with flags and slogans. The opening ceremony was attended by the leaders of Ba Vi district, the Mausoleum High Command, the Vietnam Academy of Forest Science, the leaders of Minh Quang commune, Lien Bu village, and the training unit of Unit 275; officers and soldiers of Unit 285 under the Logistics Department. Harmonizing in the cool atmosphere under the foot of Tan Mountain - Ba Vi, bordering the Da River, from the ferry, the 12 sets of gongs echoed as the village elders in the Muong cultural gong team of Minh Quang commune led the way along with representatives of the Veterans Association, Women's Union, Youth Union, and the children of primary and secondary schools in Minh Quang enthusiastically entered the ceremony area.

After the statement of reasons, Major General, Commander Nguyen Quang Tan initiated the tree-planting ceremony. Amidst the echoing sound of gongs and the pleasant weather, at Zone D, under the technical guidance of officials and employees of the Forest Tree Genetics Center of the Vietnam Academy of Forest Science, the leaders of Ba Vi district, the Mausoleum High Command, representatives of various agencies and units, along with people from Muong, Dao, Tay, Kinh ethnic groups, and the leadership of Minh Quang commune, joined hands in planting trees. In nearly 3 hours that morning, 2,600 precious trees such as ironwood, meranti, teak, and mahogany were planted, covering 6.5 hectares of the previously empty hill adjacent to Zone D. The trees were planted, and proper moisture was applied following the forestry technical process.

On April 12, 1996, a contract was signed to hand over the planted forest area of 6.5 hectares and 2,600 seedlings in Zone D to the Veterans Association of Minh Quang commune for care and protection. The contract was signed by three parties: the Logistics Department of the Mausoleum High Command, the Forest Tree Genetics Center of the Vietnam Academy of Forest Science, and the People's Committee of Minh Quang commune. The contract duration followed the basic tree growth cycle, set for 5 years (from April 1996 to April 2001).

Thanks to the correct strategy, the Zone D forest belt remains beautiful to this day. The Veterans Association of Minh Quang commune assigned its members from Lien Bu village, bordering the unit's belt, to care for and protect the forest. Under the tree canopy in the not-yet-closed canopy cycle, various agricultural products such as vegetables, beans, peas, ginger, and potatoes were successfully harvested through intercropping. The income source increased, improving the people's livelihoods, and the Veterans Association had operational funds. The forest belt was well-maintained and protected.

Drawing from the experience in Minh Quang commune, the next area was a 5-hectare rocky hill near the Hai Co temple in Zone A, entrusted to the Veterans Association of Hamlet 1 (Doi village), Thuan My commune, for care and protection from 1997 to 2002. Until now, the valuable timber forest near Doi village has flourished.

From here, a new mechanism significantly increased production and services in Zone K9 and Hanoi in a new direction (outsourcing, joint ventures, partnerships, etc.). A series of production and service enhancement models were established, progressively stabilizing and unleashing the strong potential of the unit. They followed the regulations and guidelines of the State, the Ministry of National Defense, and have been allowed. The revenue of the High Command and its units increased, and the material and spiritual lives, as well as policy work, were taken care of and improved. The K9 historical site became more beautifully preserved, valuable tree species were planted according to the plan, providing shade along roads and near lakes. The ecological environment was better preserved and protected, and the infrastructure and living conditions of agencies and units throughout the High Command were consolidated and strengthened. The logistics work contributed significantly to the entire High Command's continuous efforts to excellently fulfill the assigned political tasks.

UNCLE HO IN OUR MEMORABLE HEARTS

Colonel TRAN VU TRANG

Former Deputy Head of Political Department

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

We got such bad news in the early morning of September 01, 1969. Uncle Ho was seriously ill, broadcasted by Voice of Vietnam, from the announcement of the Politburo. Meanwhile, our troop was garrisoned in Hai Hau District, Nam Dinh Province, on duty to prevent Van Ly - a coastal area from the US enemy attacks, and simultaneously on the additional training for a South mission which was called “heading to B”. All regimes must be strictly maintained as usual no matter where we were stationed, even at the local’s residence. We were about to march after the radio’s theme song was on. But it was not a common day, the tiny speaker in the middle of the house where I and two other soldiers stayed announced in a very slow voice: “President Ho is exhausted now, excellent doctors and health experts have been invited to take care of Uncle Ho by the Central Committee and Political Bureau". We were extremely shocked and worried, sitting together, keeping our eyes focused on the speaker, looking at each other and wondering what had happened to our Uncle. Since then, several updates about Uncle Ho's health have been made. After each piece of news compressed the tightening pain until nearly noon, the radio announcer's voice choked, interrupted: 'Uncle is very ill.' Oh! It wasn't until later that I learned the beloved Father's heart in the armed forces had stopped beating. Uncle passed away at 9:47 AM on September 02. Since that Independence Day in '69, we no longer saw Uncle on the podium with bright, kind eyes and a silver beard.

Official announcement: 'President Ho has passed away,' was broadcast around 8 AM the next day, not through the Voice of Vietnam but through a cryptographic communication channel. The battalion was ordered to mobilize, assemble at the mess hall, as well as the battalion's hall. The political officer deputy battalion stood in front of the troops holding the order, and read:

- Announcement from the Political Bureau - The Deputy Political Officer suddenly lost composure, then cried out - Comrades! Uncle Ho has passed away!

We fell silent, moved, the pain spreading through the ranks. Outside, the rain grew heavier, the sky darkened, and the rain poured down, flowing along the corrugated plastic roof. The deputy political officer of the battalion gradually calmed down, wiping away tears and encouraging the soldiers. He said he had served in a unit protecting Uncle Ho when he was still in the combat zone, and even in extremely difficult conditions, Uncle lived modestly, even during times of previous imprisonment, which affected his health. I heard the deputy political officer talk about Uncle as if talking about his beloved Father.

The days that followed were days of national mourning. Along with that shared grief, there was an atmosphere of anxiety, with some soldiers showing signs of confusion. As a reinforced training unit, every three months, a battalion set out for the battlefield, so officers at all levels had to tightly manage and supervise the troops.

Then the mood of the army underwent a significant change, in a positive direction. It was in the atmosphere of the state funeral for President Ho Chi Minh, where Comrade Le Duan read Uncle Ho's will. It seemed that when writing the will, Uncle foresaw what would happen in the hearts of every citizen, every soldier, when the war was at its most intense, especially after the General Offensive and Uprising of the Spring of Mau Than (1968), when we suffered significant losses. It seemed that Uncle knew what had to be emphasized first: 'The anti-American, nation-saving struggle of our people, despite having to endure more hardships and sacrifices, will surely be completely victorious”[2]

The sacred will conveyed to us Uncle Ho's indomitable will and unwavering faith, continuing the new battle until complete victory.

True to His predictions, the historic spring of 1975 arrived. Faced with the situation of the new revolutionary period, the Political Bureau and Central Military Commission decided to establish new units to enhance the combat capabilities of the combined arms units, carry out large-scale campaigns, eliminate and disintegrate large enemy forces, change the battlefield situation, and end the war.

After 5 years in the military, I became an officer in the Armored Battalion 202. After the Quang Tri Campaign in 1972, the entire Engineer Brigade withdrew to guerrilla warfare in western Ha Tinh in the context of 'To have lunch in the North, and to fight in the South.' In October 1973, the Engineer Brigade unexpectedly received orders to retreat deep into the rear, assembling in Tam Diep, becoming the Armored Regimen 202 under the Corps 1, the main mobile reserve strategic force of the Vietnam People's Army. At the end of 1974, I was 'transferred' to the Political Bureau of the Corps, had to bid farewell to the combat unit that I had been attached to in my early years as a soldier, parting with the modest tank soldiers who were very close comrades. Later, when I had the opportunity to visit the Corps, I 'ran quick' back to visit the Engineer Brigade with twice of the Hero of the People's Armed Forces, to visit Battalion 66, where Dinh Van Hoe and Hoang Tho Mac were two heroes of the People's Armed Forces. Mac was the tank platoon leader, a fellow countryman, the same age as me, who commanded the capture of Vinh Binh Bridge, paving the way for our forces to advance into Saigon, despite being injured, he bravely sacrificed himself before the final victory of the nation.

I still remember around mid-March, the unit received orders to deploy Task Force 1, consisting of several regiments and battalions ready for combat, to participate in the liberation of Hue and Da Nang. From that moment, the entire unit was always ready, awaiting orders to engage. Although the atmosphere in the army corps seemed urgent, the officers of the unit acted as if nothing was happening, engaging in sports activities, improving volleyball and table tennis. Most of the senior officers had experienced many campaigns in various divisions and corps, so going into combat was a routine matter for them. They mentioned that this campaign was 'going far, advancing deep,' and if victorious, it would be a significant triumph, but if defeated, who knows when they would return to the North. Therefore, the Command also allowed officers a few days of relaxation. I took a military transport truck back to Hanoi to visit my wife and small child for two days, without mentioning my preparation for combat. It turned out to be a good move, sparing my wife and child unnecessary worry.

In early April, we, following the basic command of the Corps, set out from Tam Diep, and after two days, temporarily halted in Dong Ha, Quang Tri. Quang Tri had been liberated but still revealed the complete failure of those who relied on iron and steel. From Dong Ha, we switched to vehicles of the Truong Son High Command through Route 9, Khe Sanh, towards Laos. Passing through the primeval forest of Laos, reaching the crossroads station, we stopped and felt truly fascinated. Resting in a small tent made of military camouflage, looking up, I saw gentle swaying coconut leaves falling from trees tens of meters high, and a few rays of sunlight piercing through the fresh foliage. After marching through the Southern Laos, we directly enjoyed the Laotian sun and wind. The red lateritic soil was crushed into fine dust. In some places, the dust was so thick that it covered the wheels, and the following vehicles looked like they were steering through water. The Western Truong Son Road had many stretches winding along mountain slopes, some parts meandering through ancient tree roots. The convoy was on the road, and beyond it was a dense forest; only the skilled drivers of Truong Son could handle the steering wheel. Yet, in many curved sections, looking down into the deep and alluring valley, dozens of crushed and twisted vehicles lay in the mist. At that moment, it was certain that there was no way to rescue those brave drivers. The heroic martyrs lay on the majestic Truong Son divine road - the road named after Uncle Ho.

After passing the Dong Duong intersection, the combat formation of the Corps continued to advance towards the Central Highlands, recently liberated to the north of Saigon. Many infantry units had cleared mines ahead, planting rows of warning signs with the words 'mines' written on them. Following the guidance, the trailing vehicles moved forward, only one direction ahead, but inevitably several vehicles from the Division 320 got hit by anti-tank mines and tossed into the forest.

The marching formation continued to stretch, no longer needing any camouflage, although enemy reconnaissance planes continued to fly and release smoke rounds. Passing under the Song Be tunnel, the sound of artillery explosions became very close as if the final battle was imminent, and Saigon seemed so close.

As a platoon-level officer, I did not have a comprehensive understanding of the unit's overall situation, receiving only concise orders from the direct commanding officer. Later, I learned that at this point, the wartime situation was extremely critical, with forces from all directions acting like a gigantic clamp, tightening the encirclement and pushing the enemy into desperation. The enemy forces stubbornly held Xuan Loc and the gateways to Saigon.

At that decisive moment, the Political Bureau and Central Military Commission decided to name the campaign to liberate Saigon, a strategically historic campaign, as the Ho Chi Minh Campaign.

We often say that President Ho Chi Minh is the immortal spirit of the Vietnamese people. This was true even in these circ*mstances when the campaign had reached its decisive point, and His name became an invincible spiritual force resonating throughout the front lines. His name was a trumpet call to battle. Following His shining example, we were determined to fight, unafraid of hardships, difficulties, and sacrifice.

I believe that in everyone's life, it's the same. In the face of difficulties, challenges, losses, and suffering, if there is a warm hand to hold, a timely word of encouragement can change one's destiny.

That evening, we were sitting around a transistor radio to monitor the situation when we received news that this campaign was named after Uncle Ho. All of us felt like we were given additional motivation, an encouragement for the journey into the enemy's last stronghold. After that night, Mr. Ha (team leader), Mr. Lung, and I were ordered to go with Division 312 as political front officers for the Corps Political Department. Returning our short guns, each of us received an AK rifle, closely attached to the unit, and directly participated in the liberation of Phu Loi - Binh Duong.

I can never forget that special moment - the moment we declared the complete liberation of the South, forcing the pseudo-army and Saigon's pseudo-authority to surrender unconditionally. On that day, everyone with a gun pointed it towards the sky, firing rounds continuously for hours, resonating with the explosions from the enemy's ammunition depot, causing the sky and ground to shake, ears ringing, and only seeing the triumphant faces.

Oh! In that first moment, our hearts earnestly remembered Him. Ho Chi Minh, the silver-haired Father who lit a fire for us on cold nights, now the nation shines free from the enemy that He had gone far to vanquish. Everyone said, that if Uncle Ho were still alive at this moment, He would be very pleased. Oh, Uncle! The flag of a hundred victories that You handed over has been brought to the pinnacle of glory by successive generations of Vietnamese, especially those directly under Your command who brought victory.

After April 30, for a few days, we went down to grasp the situation of the units, and I, along with Nguyen Duc Son - Deputy Political Commissar of the Engineer Brigade, a young and energetic officer (now Lieutenant General - Head of the Political Department of the General Staff), was 'given' a Jeep and a captured pseudo prisoner to drive along Route 13 still cluttered with abandoned enemy vehicles, guns, uniforms, and hats towards the faux Military Officers School, where the Corps was stationed. A month later, we again hurriedly marched along Highway 1 to Tam Diep, ready to defend the capital.

The South was completely liberated, the country no longer had the shadow of invasion forces, and the entire nation joyfully celebrated in unity. Amidst the shared joy, there are the sorrows of many families who lost their dearest ones. They are the valiant martyrs who laid down on the liberating road full of "blood and flowers".

These days, on various media platforms, in newspapers, and in the hearts of every Vietnamese, the name of Uncle Ho is always mentioned. A great joy is spreading: Uncle Ho's Mausoleum is about to be inaugurated. Our Party and State have made the right decision, in line with the wishes of the entire Party, people, and armed forces: to preserve Uncle Ho’s body for a long time and build His Mausoleum in the historical center of Ba Dinh, where He delivered the Declaration of Independence. The determination and efforts of those who built Uncle Ho's Mausoleum were immense, completing a magnificent work right on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of National Day on September 02. In that military parade, through television broadcasts, we saw Uncle Ho's Mausoleum for the first time. It was truly a beautiful architectural work! The entire mausoleum was outlined against the high sky, with sturdy columns supporting the graceful mausoleum roof. The construction left an unforgettable impression of the lofty beauty and simplicity, the skillful selection of the essence of both Eastern and Western ancient architecture, which resonates with the sensibilities of the Vietnamese people. From here, Uncle Ho rests eternally in the Mausoleum, His noble spirit forever guiding our nation.

During that time, when I returned to work in Hanoi, I immediately arranged everything to visit Uncle Ho's Mausoleum. In the beginning, the reception of the people was very limited. I remember I was given priority in line for being a military officer. After presenting my officer's ID, we had to maneuver through a covered gate made of canvas to enter the room to watch a plastic film. The film screening room resembled a military tent completely covered to prevent light from entering, so it was very hot. We attentively watched images of Uncle Ho's revolutionary activities, and the excitement mounted as we thought about visiting Uncle Ho in just a few minutes.

And that awaited moment arrived. Stepping into the room where Uncle Ho lay, I suddenly felt enveloped in a sacred space. I don't know how I walked; I just focused on looking at Uncle Ho, with deep and profound emotions surging within me. Oh! Has He truly departed? He lay there, with a high forehead, sparse hair, and beard, fair skin, with some sunspots near the temple, his two hands with slender and beautiful fingers placed on the abdomen, his eyes closed as if resting peacefully. Perhaps the waves have calmed, the sea is tranquil, and the great captain has guided the Motherland's boat to the shore of glory. Now, He peacefully rests in peace.

Later, when assigned to work at the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command, in the course of my duties and responsibilities, I had many opportunities to inspect the preparations to welcome our fellow citizens and international guests to visit Uncle Ho. I had the privilege to see Uncle Ho up close on many occasions. Every time was like the first time, and in my heart, I felt overwhelmed with emotion, sensing that His spirit was guiding and comforting my thoughts and soul. Along with many comrades, we pledged a lifelong commitment to the Fatherland, to the Party, wholeheartedly loyal by His side.

General Secretary Nong Duc Manh presents the first prize to Senior Lieutenant Phan Thi Dong-

a member of the Political Department – Mausoleum High Command,

at the National Storytelling Competition on the shining moral examples of President Ho Chi Minh,

in October 2008

General Phung Quang Thanh - Member of the Political Bureau, Minister of National Defense, is attaching the Ho Chi Minh Medal to the Victory Flag of Institute 69, in September 2009

The daily flag-raising ceremony at President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The first doctor team takes pictures with Soviet experts at Lenin Mausoleum Research Institute in 1967

Acceptance of conference on scientific research topics

between the Mausoleum Management Board and the Moscow Biomedical Research Center

Lieutenant General Truong Quang Khanh - Deputy Minister of National Defense, takes a photo with Vietnamese and Russian medical scientists at the

"Conference summarizing 40 Years of long-term preservation and absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body (1969-2009)''

The Specialized Technical Team (Technical Department) is on duty to ensure the parameters for serving the visit to President Ho Chi Minh

The inauguration ceremony of the restoration and upgrade of the air conditioning and ventilation system at President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, in August 2009

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Management Board organizes a ceremony to present a statue of Uncle Ho to the Party Committee and the people of Quang Binh province

The show "Ho Chi Minh - A Lifetime for the Country and the People"

organized by the Mausoleum High Command, People's Public Security Newspaper, and Ho Chi Minh City Television to celebrate the 64^th Anniversary of the August Revolution and Independence Day on September 02, 2009

The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command organized a seminar to promote the campaign “Studying and Following the shinning Moral Example of President Ho Chi Minh” on March 28, 2008

The performance by the Mausoleum High Command won the excellent prize at the Festival of Arts of the Armed Forces and Youth, Students, and Pupils for the 7^th time in October 2009

THE GREAT HAPPINESS OF A VETERAN

Lieutenant Colonel BUI DOAN CAM

Former Research Officer of the Political Department

I enlisted in 1967, serving as an artillery soldier in Unit 675, participating in combat alongside my unit on the front lines of Route 9 - Khe Sanh during the Tet in 1968. Subsequently, I joined my unit in engaging the largest-scale enemy forces since the war with the United States, contributing to the nation's rescue on the Southern battlefield. The qualities and rich traditions of my unit are deeply ingrained in the hearts of every officer and soldier, becoming the aspirations and honors driving our dedicated efforts. After three years of combat, I became a party member and attended long-term officer training with my unit. Upon completing my training, I was deployed back to the artillery unit to participate in the Ho Chi Minh Campaign. In late 1975, the distinguished honor arrived for Regiment 675, as the Party and the State bestowed upon us the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces.

While I was a cadet at the Artillery Officer School, the battlefield called in 1972, and our class graduated three months early to join the Artillery Engineer Brigade 78, Division 324. I later participated in the Corp 2 in major battles against invading enemy forces at Tau Mine, Bong Mountain, and Nghe Mountain in Khe Tre. The 85mm cannons, 37mm anti-aircraft guns, and 122mm mortars were all maneuvered up the hills by the infantry battalion for two days and nights to occupy strategic positions, firing directly at the enemy targets. I couldn't help but think of how our forefathers triumphed at Dien Bien Phu, and now we inherit and elevate the art of war, showcasing the strategic prowess of our military's tactics. At the end of the campaign, in the large hall at A Luoi, during the Youth Congress for Victory, I served as the youth deputy, representing the entire battalion. I promised on behalf of the youth that we would uphold the tradition of solidarity, excel in combat, hit our targets, thoroughly implement Resolution 15 of the Party Central, discipline ourselves, possess excellent technical skills, and maintain high mobility. Our goal was not only to liberate Thua Thien - Hue but also to rapidly liberate Saigon when the time came.

The anticipation of imminent victory filled the hall, with resounding applause. The Political Commissar of the Division, Nguyen Trong Dan, embraced and kissed me, announcing with great emotion that our unit, after ten years of fighting, was awarded the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces for liberating the Southern region. After the conference, our unit prepared to welcome a delegation of senior officers passing through, preparing for the 1975 campaign. Together with my unit, we participated in the liberation of Hue and Da Nang, and as a reserve force heading to Phan Rang, we received the joyful news of the complete victory of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign on April 30, 1975. Subsequently, I was reassigned to Laos, and by 1979, I returned to my homeland. The Division sent me to pursue further education to serve in the long term. Before completing my studies, the unit received the second title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces. Words cannot fully express the overwhelming joy and pride that surged within me.

As a soldier who has matured through over 10 years of combat, the dream of seeing Uncle Ho just once in a lifetime is already a great joy, but that remains a dream. Since Uncle Ho passed away, I haven't had the chance to visit Him even once. When I received the decision to work at the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command, the emotions within me were beyond description. I was appointed as the Deputy Political Chief of Unit 195 and later moved to a research position in the Political Department. The tasks were much more challenging than the combat years, as being in a special unit with special tasks demanded a great deal of effort. The care of the Party Committee of the High Command, colleagues, especially technical officers, and technical workers helped us complete our mission. In 1990, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Uncle Ho's birth, I, along with my research team, completed the book ‘For a Peaceful Sleep of Uncle Ho.' It was a truly happy contribution to the unit's mission. In 2000, Unit 195 was awarded the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces, and in 2004, the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command was awarded the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces during the renewal period.

As a veteran, there is no greater happiness than being associated with three units, all of which are heroic. Many comrades and fellow soldiers never experienced the days of peace, and many officers, soldiers, and veterans have never had the opportunity to visit Uncle Ho.

I am a veteran with the honor and immense happiness of having been associated with heroic units.

THE BAR SOAP

BUI SON HAI

Worker of Unit 595

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

The story I'm sharing happened more than 20 years ago. On that day, to clear the land for the construction of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the unit requested land in the Hao Nam area, O Cho Dua ward. It is located at the border between Cat Linh ward in Ba Dinh district and O Cho Dua ward in Dong Da district, now serving as the headquarters of Unit 595 and the logistics and technical area of the High Command. Due to its location at the boundary of two districts, the security situation in the area was very complex. During the land clearance, the entire 1.4-hectare area was a reservoir and drainage system for the surrounding population. The foundation filling and the construction of a reinforced concrete drainage pipe system for the entire area were carried out simultaneously. At that time, I was still a staff member of the Project Management Board, assigned to directly monitor and supervise the foundation filling and drainage system construction.

Throughout the construction period, water from the reservoir and sewage from the residential area continuously flowed out, the roads were narrow and muddy, and, at this time, the residents of the Kl and K2 collective housing areas even installed concrete piles to prevent foundation construction vehicles from entering. Excavating and placing pipes were extremely challenging; the excavator would scoop up water, causing the soil to flow back down. With a tight schedule, urgent completion of the plan assigned by the High Command was necessary, and the unit had to replace two construction units due to insufficient capacity to meet the schedule and plan set by the High Command. The entire unit's personnel took turns monitoring day and night, finding solutions to overcome difficulties and challenges. Eventually, the construction progressed smoothly, excavation proceeded favorably, the area expanded, bamboo and coconut piles were woven into anti-erosion barriers, water pumps operated 24/24, and the drainage system was completed and put into operation. Under the guidance of the Chief of the High Command and the guidance of the Political Department, community work was effectively carried out, addressing concerns of the people in the area, and neighborhood teams were resolved. Each sand delivery truck worked day and night to meet the deadline for handover.

During construction, due to a significant amount of water discharge, the construction force had to build barriers section by section to prevent water from flowing into the manhole and dry the joint connections. During the acceptance and handover at each location, I vividly remember that if the soil was not excavated, the pipes would become clogged, affecting other drainage lines. At that time, the wastewater had nearly flooded the mouths of the pipes, and waste overflowed, causing environmental pollution and hindering construction. I suggested to the construction force to excavate and clear the pipes, but they insisted that they had already done so, and the pipes were not clogged. To prove the truth, I had to personally dive into the deep sewage pit up to chest height, dig up soil and rocks, clear the pipes to demonstrate to them. While doing that, the leader from Group B (Comrade Toan, belonging to the Vietnam Science and Technology Application Center) showed a somewhat annoyed and uncomfortable expression. However, after calming down, Comrade Toan was very enthusiastic, saying to the construction workers on their side, "As soldiers, when necessary, even if we have to jump into the fire, we will do it," and he asked his workers to dig up all the soil and rocks.

Appreciating my sense of responsibility, the next morning when I arrived at the office, Comrade Toan personally gave me 2 bars of soap and jokingly said, "You have to go back and use up these 2 bars of soap before coming to the office," in front of all the comrades in the office. That afternoon, Commander Nguyen Van Tuong came to encourage and praise me.

From then until now, in every situation, no matter what task I'm assigned, I always remind myself to try my best with utmost dedication, working with the highest sense of responsibility to complete the assigned mission. In doing so, I contribute in my small way alongside the unit to fulfill the political mission entrusted by the Party, the military, and the people.

THE SOLIDER GUARDING THE MAUSOLEUM

NGUYEN QUANG TRUNG

Worker of Unit 195

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

Another spring has come to our beloved homeland. As the spring air permeates through the streets and alleys of Hanoi, the officers of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command are busy preparing for a new military campaign. In my heart, memories flood back, taking me to the unforgettable days of spring exactly 22 years ago. On that day, the full moon of the first lunar month in 1987, my family welcomed special guests, two officers in military uniforms who came to inquire about my profile for consideration of my transfer to work at their unit during my military service. The evening had set in, and after sipping the tea prepared by my mother, one of the guests spoke:

- Hello, I am Truong Van Tham, and here is Nguyen Van Lam. We are officers from the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. We have been assigned to review the profiles for the selection of Trung to work at our unit during his military service. We sincerely hope for your family's support to help us fulfill our mission.

Oh! Really? It is truly an honor for Trung and our family. Whatever you need, please feel free to ask, and our family will do our utmost to assist.
Now, we would like your family to take us to the Party cell secretary of the village so that we can start working promptly.

I was entrusted by my mother to take the officers to the secretary's house. After Tham introduced his name and mission, the village secretary completed the necessary procedures to facilitate the inspection work. Instead of giving comments, the secretary said:

Basically, Trung's family is a good one, strictly adhering to the Party's line, state policies, and laws. They have good relations with the neighbors and the community. Trung himself is gentle, obedient, and has not violated any village rules. The only flaw is being a bit indecisive. He has done well in his studies, but he failed the university entrance exam a few times. It's mainly because he aimed too high. If he had chosen a moderately challenging university, it would have been fine.

The gentlemen brought the verified personal profile to the commune's People's Committee to request signatures and seals. After completing the task, the sky had already darkened. On that day, transportation conditions were challenging, so I invited them to stay overnight at my house. At that time, my family was very poor, even poorer than other families in the village. My father had passed away when we were very young, and my siblings and I hadn't fully grasped the greatest sorrow in our lives. My mother, a hardworking woman, earned a living by selling land and toiling for the sky. She single-handedly raised the three of us. My sister completed high school and pursued a teaching degree, getting married two years after graduating. My brother finished high school and joined the military, while I, having finished my studies, though not going anywhere, couldn't contribute much to my mother because I was engrossed in pursuing a medical career. After several attempts, each failure making me more bitter, I requested postponements of my military service to fulfill my ambitions. On the third attempt without success, and by the fourth attempt, I was no longer eligible to participate in the exam according to regulations. My mother had done everything for me, but economic conditions did not improve. The poverty continued to haunt my family – a makeshift house, essential items inside with nothing valuable beyond daily necessities. With only two beds for my mother and me, there was only one old cotton quilt left by my late father.

On that cold night, my mother, using the excuse of having to assist my uncle the next day, went to his house to lend the old cotton quilt to share among us. However, with their professional experience and sensitivity, the gentlemen guessed that my mother didn't go to my uncle's house and that she didn't sleep the whole night, busying herself with housekeeping. Therefore, they felt uneasy and stayed awake all night. The next morning, the two gentlemen woke up early, had breakfast, thanked my family for the warm welcome, and cheerfully asked for permission to visit and inspect other cases. My mother expressed her gratitude for their concern about my situation, hoping they would understand the family's circ*mstances. I could see the deep emotion on their faces.

Nearly a month later, I received the conscription notice from the unit. Needless to say, my mother and I were overjoyed. Relatives, friends, and neighbors came to congratulate and encourage me. I also promised to do my best not to let down the trust and love of everyone.

On March 07, 1987, a day considered a turning point in my life, I embarked on my military service journey. Gathering early in the morning, after roll call and necessary procedures, we were welcomed back to the unit with Hai Au vehicles adorned with flags and solemn slogans. Upon our return to the High Command Headquarters, after receiving our military uniforms, we paid our respects to Uncle Ho and recited the oath before commencing training. I had visited Uncle Ho's Mausoleum as a student before, but the feeling this time was entirely different. A profound emotion overwhelmed me: in front of me was the resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, a place where, in just a few months after our training, we would be back to guard his eternal sleep.

Thinking about it, I felt truly honored and proud. We, the sons of the rich revolutionary tradition of the countryside, were here in Ba Dinh, the historical, political, and cultural center of the country, undertaking a highly noble mission entrusted by the Party, the State, the military, and the people. I promised myself to study hard, to train well, and to be worthy of the trust and love of everyone. After three intense months of training under the dedicated guidance of the Training Team, including Captain Tran Dinh Nen - the Company Leader; Senior Lieutenant Nguyen Van Lam - the Deputy Political Chief of the Company; Senior Lieutenant Truong Quang Anh and Lieutenant Dinh Van Nhuan, I was assigned to work with Unit 295. Initially, I felt a bit sad for not being assigned to Unit 275, where I could wear the official uniform and stand guard beside my beloved Uncle Ho every day. Sensing my feelings, the members of the Training Team encouraged me, saying that the unit's mission not only ensured security during ceremonies but also involved various other tasks. They urged me to do my best to fulfill the assigned tasks, contributing to the unit's overall mission. Upon arriving at Unit 295, we were warmly welcomed. Major Thuy affectionately referred to as "Uncle Thuy," the Unit Commander, congratulated and encouraged us, providing meticulous guidance and assigning responsibilities to each of us. As time passed, the work became absorbing, and as my military service duties approached completion, I stood at a crossroads in my life.

After a night of contemplation, with profound reverence and boundless love for the brilliant leader of the nation, and with the encouragement and support of leaders at all levels, I decided to submit a request to stay and serve permanently in the military. A new chapter in my life began when the Chief of the High Command accepted my application. Since then, staying in the unit, despite working in various positions and performing different tasks, I have always strived to give my best to the work, achieving significant accomplishments. Though 22 years have passed, the memories of my first days in the military remain vivid in me, never fading away. I am proud that I made the right choice for my path, where I have matured significantly. I've learned valuable lessons about the ethics of Uncle Ho, the love between people, the importance of independence and autonomy in every task. More importantly, I have lived in a healthy cultural environment, free from rivalry, with no room for wrongdoing, and with no tolerance for deviating thoughts incompatible with the essence of a heroic unit. I promise myself to diligently pursue further education, enhance professional skills, to meet the increasing demands for the long-term safety mission of preserving Uncle Ho’s body and the monument, contributing to the continuous enhancement of the splendor and cleanliness of the Mausoleum. This commitment aims to fulfill the central political mission entrusted by the Party, the State, the military, and the people, being a worthy soldier guarding Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, ensuring its perpetual brilliance.

SOLDIERS BY THE MAUSOLEUM TELL STORIES ABOUT UNCLE HO

Colonel NGUYEN HUU MANH

Political Commissar of Unit 275

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

Along the journey from Hanoi to Hai Phong to attend a Storytelling Competition on the shining moral examples of President Ho Chi Minh for the entire Northern region's military zone, Senior Lieutenant Nguyen Cam Thach (officer of the Department of Biochemistry Sciences, Institute 69) and Professional Lieutenant Phan Thi Dong (library staff at the Political Department) enthusiastically exchanged ideas on the additional topics introduced by the Organizing Committee. Personally, I was lost in thoughts about competitions at grassroots levels, and the competitions at the Party Committee of Unit 969.

Since early May 2007, all grassroots party committees and block-level youth union units organized competitions. Unit 275's Party Committee was the first to organize a competition to draw experiences. Despite some initial confusion, party committees, and participants made great efforts. Each story conveyed deep respect for Uncle Ho. The competition organized by the Executive Committee of the Party Committee of Unit 969 was highly successful. The selection of exemplary candidates for training and participation in the military-wide competition was made. Nguyen Cam Thach and Phan Thi Dong, two outstanding candidates from the Party Committee of Unit 969, were chosen to participate in the military-wide competition.

However, being a small unit with a limited number of officials, employees, and soldiers participating in the competition, coupled with limited experience, raised concerns about whether this mission could be accomplished. The words of admonition from Major General Nguyen Ngoc Lam, the Political Commissar of the High Command, always echoed in our ears: The soldiers of the Mausoleum Protection Force are directly responsible for preserving Uncle Ho’s body, serving as exemplary learners of Ho Chi Minh's moral example. Above all, they must express their thoughts and feelings through stories that reflect Uncle Ho’s ethical example. Simultaneously, disseminate the stories of "Soldiers guarding Uncle Ho's Mausoleum," who maintain the peaceful sleep of Uncle Ho and wholeheartedly serve the people and international visitors. This is to deepen the political and cultural significance of the Mausoleum and contribute to the overall success of the movement for the entire Party, people, and military.

The city of flamboyant flowers is vibrant during the summer days due to the influx of tourists, seemingly becoming more lively with the presence of a large number of officers and soldiers from the entire northern region coming to the competition. Around the area of the High Command Headquarters and the Naval Forces’ Guesthouse, vibrant flower flags are welcoming the delegations to the competition. After settling the accommodations for the delegation, I took the opportunity to exchange information with the delegation leaders and the Organizing Committee. The delegation leaders from Military Region 4, Military Region 3, Naval Forces all mentioned that they had organized the competition meticulously and selected outstanding candidates to participate. Each unit organized the competition at 4 to 5 levels (Battalion, Engineer Brigade, Division, Military Region), selecting from hundreds of candidates from the grassroots, reporting the results to their agencies and units to train their psychology and communication skills for storytelling. They believed they would achieve good results in this regional-level competition in the North.

Taking advantage of the time after the dinner, we discussed the situation, adjusted the competition plan, and continued to proficiently review storytelling techniques and exchange additional knowledge about the content of the cultural questions posed by the judges. Thach responded smoothly to 20 questions, while Dong still had some areas to improve. That same evening, the Organizing Committee held a meeting with all delegation leaders and contestants to disseminate the competition plan and allocate the competition venues for the contestants. Nguyen Cam Thach chose the 12^th position for the competition in Area 2, and Phan Thi Dong chose the 16^th position for the competition in Area 1.

Early on the second day, the competition began. After the speech by Lieutenant General Pham Hong Thanh - Deputy Head of the General Political Department, Comrade Phan Thi Dong had the honor of representing the contestants and delivering a speech expressing determination to tell the story of Ho Chi Minh's moral example to achieve the highest results.

During the initial rounds of the competition, we exchanged experiences regarding the quality of the competition in different areas and shared a common observation: all contestants were well-prepared psychologically, had storytelling skills, and knew all the knowledge questions. Both Thach and Dong seemed a bit anxious, but everyone was determined to make the most of the time for preparation to achieve the highest results.

On the afternoon of the third day, Nguyen Cam Thach entered the competition at table 2 at the location of Team H76. Thach stepped onto the stage with a calm and confident demeanor, starting the story "Uncle Ho with the Two Visits and the Will." His storytelling style, alternating between humor and seriousness, conveyed Uncle Ho's relaxed and carefree demeanor during visits to Nguyen Trai at the Con Son – Kiep Bac temple and to Confucius before writing the will for the entire Party, people, and military. Thach's answer to the knowledge question section was philosophical and captivated the audience. However, surprisingly, the Judges did not ask additional questions but commented: that the task had been completed. Thach was concerned about the results, but I believe he performed well in presenting his story.

At the end of the morning on the fourth day, Phan Thi Dong entered the initial competition at Table 1. It was suspenseful because before Dong, Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thi Hoa - a teacher at the Military College of Culture and Arts - had performed very well with the story "How could I get angry with you, brother?" describing the emotions during the visit to Uncle Ho by her sister Nguyen Thi Thanh.

Stepping onto the stage, recognizing the faces representing the contestants who spoke during the opening ceremony, Dong received a round of applause from the audience. Naturally, Dong took everyone through every sentence, every word in the story "Uncle Ho with the South." After the initial moments of lively discussions, the audience in the auditorium began to fall silent, everyone attentively following the performance. Looking down, I saw many officers and soldiers with teary eyes. The story concludes with the final lines of the song "From the South, I've come to see you," creating a highlight that expresses the longing of Southern children to meet Uncle Ho. Before Dong could say goodbye, the applause erupted continuously.

In the final part of the competition, Colonel Le Cuong - Head of the Judging Board, asked a question: "Comrade, why did Uncle Ho have such special feelings for the South?" Both Thach and I were a bit perplexed. After a moment of contemplation, Dong calmly answered: Because the South is where Uncle Ho set out to find the path to save the country, but never once did he return to visit the Southern people who were suffering and sacrificing due to the invasion of the imperialist United States. Talking about family's reasons personally, reasons are that Uncle Ho’s mother passed away in Hue, and his father is resting peacefully in Cao Lanh, Dong Thap.

The answer had just ended, and a wave of applause erupted in appreciation. Outside the auditorium, many naval officers and soldiers were gathering, requesting exchanges, meetings, and taking commemorative photos with Dong.

When returning to the guesthouse for lunch, the loudspeaker of the Naval Command echoed the narrations of the story 'Uncle Ho with the South.' We became even more confident that Dong's exam results were excellent. I reported a summary of the results to Colonel Le Hong Duong - Deputy Head of the Political Department, hoping that Dong would continue to participate in the semi-final this afternoon.

At 01:00 PM, the semi-final of the competition for the entire Northern Military Region took place. The organizing committee would select two contestants with the highest scores from each region to present their stories to the judging panel and the audience. A special aspect was that the organizing committee did not announce the list of selected contestants for the semi-final in advance. Instead, all contestants gathered in the auditorium, and anyone could be called on stage to present their story right away to ensure fairness. Since no one was allowed to prepare in advance, everyone was nervous and hopeful: perhaps they would get the chance to participate. If any contestant participated in this round, it was almost certain that they would win a high prize in the competition.

The first, second, and third contestants quickly told their stories. As the fourth and fifth contestants approached, a small buzz began in the auditorium. Everyone was guessing who the next contestant would be, and whether their unit would be included. I looked at Thach, Thach looked at Dong, and Dong glanced at Truyen (the driver). Each of us appeared anxious. When the organizing committee introduced the audience to the story 'Uncle Ho with the South,' we were elated. However, the organizing committee announced that the performer is Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thanh Binh, Naval Forces. I couldn't believe my ears anymore. Was there a mistake? No, it was clear that Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thanh Binh stepped onto the stage, greeted the organizing committee, greeted the audience, and presented the story. At this point, my mind was confused, and I couldn't focus on listening to the story, as I was thinking about how Naval Forces soldiers would share their experience with Dong. Thus, Dong had no more opportunities. Because in Region 1, there were already two contestants, and after seven contestants, no one had presented the same story. During that time, Colonel Le Hong Duong called Dong to ask if she had presented the story in the semi-final. My mind was in turmoil, and I answered the chief with a lack of confidence: 'Dong has not presented yet, sir! There is only one more contestant left. Perhaps Dong is not sure yet and must wait for another occasion, sir!' Chief Duong seemed to understand our thoughts, so he encouraged us to continue monitoring the situation, supporting each other, and promptly reporting any new developments.

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thanh Binh finished his performance, and the auditorium fell silent, listening intently as the organizing committee called the last contestant for the final round to tell a story before the competition: 'Please welcome on stage, Lieutenant Colonel Phan Thi Dong, from the Mausoleum High Command, to continue telling the story 'Uncle Ho with the South.' I felt relief like a thousand tons got off my shoulders. Thach came running to me, whispering, "We’ve made it”. I immediately called Chief Le Hong Duong to report. Chief Duong, also nervous like us, but joyfully and exclaimed, “Good luck”.

Still the same story, but when Dong narrated it, the auditorium fell silent again. Perhaps this was the final story of the competition, so everyone was focused. The determining factor, however, remained Dong's storytelling skills, her ability to convey emotions and captivate the audience. Dong cleverly led the story, helping everyone understand the special feelings Uncle Ho had for the people, soldiers in the South, and the profound emotions of the people and soldiers in the South who always longed to meet him – like children willing to meet their father. A long-awaited reunion and the belief in victory on the revolutionary path that he had guided the entire Party, the entire nation forward. At the end of the story, she told about the story of Nguyen Hong Son, who cared for his ill mother Sanh from Ca Mau to Hanoi, to visit Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, tears welled up in the eyes of many spectators. Phan Thi Dong deserved the second prize in the entire Northern Military Region.

Later on, the story 'Uncle Ho with the South' continued to be supplemented and perfected by Phan Thi Dong, who participated in competitions at various levels. She won the second prize at the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour, the first prize in the preliminary round of Region 4 in Vung Tau City, and the first prize in the National Storytelling Competition on the shining moral examples of President Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi in October 2008.

HONORED AND PROUD

Senior Lieutenant NGUYEN VAN BIEN

Team 1, Unit 275

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

During my training at the First Army Academy, an environment known as the "discipline of steel," which all cadets trained and graduated agreed to say so, I gained essential knowledge and tools for both my career and life afterward. On August 13, 2003, after graduating, I was assigned to work at the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

On my first day at the unit, I couldn't envision what my duties would be. Through practical training and entering into mission execution, I truly felt fortunate and incredibly honored and proud. This pride extends not only to myself but also to my family, my friends, and my hometown. I have the privilege of undertaking a particularly important, noble, and sacred political task. It is a mission entrusted by the Party, the military, and the people - a mission to maintain the undisturbed sleep of Uncle Ho, to preserve and protect absolutely the body of President Ho Chi Minh and the Mausoleum.

Over the past six years, in my position as a platoon leader, I have continually studied, accumulated practical experience, and improved my skills in various aspects. I have nurtured the moral qualities of a revolutionary soldier and actively learned from comrades and colleagues who excel in professional expertise, methods of working, and military command management. This is to ensure the successful execution of the assigned tasks.

I still remember the first day I took on the role of platoon leader, commanding the formation to perform the daily flag-raising ceremony in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It was an opportunity for me to affirm myself in front of the unit and higher command levels. During my practical training, the unit organized day and night training, and I frequently received guidance from Colonel Bui Huu Hung - former Commander of Unit H75, and Major Nguyen Anh Thi - former Platoon Leader of the Honor Guard, who provided careful instruction and shared practical experiences. After a period of training and practical assessments, the unit officially approved me to command the formation in performing the daily flag-raising ceremony in front of the Mausoleum. When the national flag is raised and flies over historic Ba Dinh Square, I feel a surge of emotional and proud feelings, a sense of national pride. I silently vow before the beloved spirit of Uncle Ho, before the Party, to fulfill the mission to the best of my ability, minute by minute, hour by hour, ensuring the peaceful sleep of Uncle Ho and performing the flag-raising ceremony in front of his Mausoleum. The national flag ascends to the most solemn position in front of Ba Dinh Square, affirming Vietnam's position and stature on the international stage. This allows us, daily, to guide and welcome our fellow citizens and international visitors to visit Uncle Ho and the Mausoleum.

On one occasion during my leave to my hometown, the Executive Committee of the Veterans Association in the commune, knowing that I work at the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command, asked me to coordinate with the organizing committee for the registration of wreaths and to watch the film "The Last Moments of Uncle Ho." I remember on the morning of September 07, 2007, celebrating the success of the term congress of the Commune Veterans Association, the Executive Committee organized a visit to Uncle Ho. When the delegation arrived at No. 8 Hung Vuong, I saw 17 veterans stepping out of the car. These individuals had experienced various battlefields from Vinh Linh – Quang Tri to the southern battlefields. Some even performed high international duties in Laos and Cambodia. Many had left part of their blood and bones on the battlefields. Some are currently serving as the Party Secretary of the commune, while others have retired as District Party leaders or have been recently elected as the Chairman of the Commune Veterans Association. Among them was my father, a retired military officer since 1982, who had participated in the resistance against the United States, saving the country from 1959 to 1975, and fought continuously on the battlefield in Laos for 12 years. Now, they have grown old, with graying hair, but for some, it was their first time visiting the capital and the first honor to enter Uncle Ho's Mausoleum. After heartfelt greetings and handshakes, I led the delegation to the screening room to watch "The Last Moments of Uncle Ho," guided by the guesthouse staff. When the film started, the room fell silent, and the veterans attentively watched. For some, it was their first time seeing this emotional footage of Uncle Ho's last moments, an experience beyond the broadcasts and newspapers they had known.

After watching the film, the delegation entered the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Captain Pham Van Hien, Team 1, led the delegation's wreath-laying ceremony. The worn-out legs of these veterans were the legs of Truong Son soldiers of the past, agile and tireless, traversing time effortlessly, crossing streams and dense forests for the frontline. However, today, as they walked on Ba Dinh Square, those steps seemed to pause, as if there was a pull, a desire to slow down time to stay with Uncle Ho longer, to observe him more closely - the venerable Father of the nation, the hero of national liberation, the outstanding cultural figure. When Uncle Ho went to the eternal realm, they were still fighting on the southern battlefield. Even though peace has prevailed for more than 30 years, only now have they had the opportunity to visit Uncle Ho, explore the Mausoleum and fulfill their long-standing desire, even if it's just once to gaze upon Uncle Ho. Closing their eyes and extending their hands would bring peace to their hearts. This is the wish of the Executive Committee of the Commune Veterans' Association. The entire delegation carefully observed Uncle Ho and teary eyes expressed emotions as if there might not be another chance to see him again.

After that, the delegation visited the Ho Chi Minh Monument area at the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh Museum, where the tour guide meticulously introduced the last years of Uncle Ho's life and the invaluable historical artifacts related to President Ho Chi Minh. On that afternoon, the Executive Committee of the Commune Veterans Association was welcomed by the Unit H75. The exchange session, although short, left an unforgettable impression on the sincere feelings of the former soldiers. On that day, representing the unit command, Colonel Vu The Khiem - former Political Commissar of Unit 275, who had fought on the Southern battlefield, delivered a speech, recalling the unforgettable memories of the heroic years. Representing the local authorities, Comrade Vu Tri Tuan, the Party Committee Secretary of the commune, spoke with sincere emotions, feeling honored that the locality had an officer serving at Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, expressing gratitude to the unit command for providing favorable conditions to receive the delegation. After the exchange, the veteran comrades wanted to convey to me - the younger generation, the importance of upholding the local traditions, serving better at Uncle Ho's side; making efforts to excel in managing the platoon command, performing the daily flag-raising ceremony better. Before parting, the members of the delegation took commemorative photos of their visit to Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, exchanging warm greetings, and promising to meet again soon. Now, when visiting any house in the Executive Committee of the Veterans Association of the commune, everyone sees those photos taken during the visit to Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, placed in a prominent position as unforgettable memories of the visit, touring the Mausoleum.

Writing down these deep memories today, I cannot forget the hardships and difficulties of my family when I embarked on the military path. My father is a war invalid, and my mother often falls ill. One time, while my mother was in the field collecting corn leaves for the buffalo to eat, she was unfortunately injured by the corn leaves, tearing the cornea of her eye. She had to undergo treatment for nearly a year, from the district level to the central hospital, without fully recovering. Due to the lack of labor, my youngest sister, who was studying in 8th grade and had been an excellent student for many consecutive years, had to interrupt her studies to help the family and allow me to continue my education, even though deep down, she did not want to quit school. During my years at the First Army Academy, many nights I thought about my father, mother, and younger siblings without sharing the burden of helping the family. Some people sacrificed their dreams to allow me to follow the military path, a path that my father and brother had gone through, representing the most beautiful memories in more than 10 years (from March 1997 to the present). My small contribution aims to enrich the traditions of Unit H75, thanks to the contributions of my family and hometown, to derive strength and belief that help me successfully fulfill every assigned task.

It is truly an honor and pride to work in a unit that performs a special political mission, stationed in the capital, a city for peace, a thousand-year-old cultural center, the political, cultural, and economic hub of the country, performing the mission of preserving the sacred heritage of humanity and protecting the revolutionary achievements that our Party and people have achieved. These are the most precious values of the Ho Chi Minh era.

WELCOMING THE HEAD OF A VILLAGE TO VISIT THE MAUSOLEUM

Captain VU NGOC QUYET

Staff Officer, Unit 275

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

For a long time, we have thought about Uncle Ho with immense gratitude for his contributions to the nation, the entire country of Vietnam. It is difficult to express this in words. For every Vietnamese, it seems that there is still not enough to convey the depth of these feelings. The emotions are profound and vary according to each layer, class, and specific generation. When these emotions are examined in depth, it is like tracing back to the roots, and the answer is quite simple: President Ho Chi Minh is the great leader of the Vietnamese nation, a significant figure for the people of the world. Since Uncle Ho has been leaving us and the Mausoleum was open to visitors, the most outstanding individuals from the Party, the people, and the military – the officers and soldiers dedicated to protecting the Mausoleum, especially the officers and soldiers of Unit 275 – have had the great honor and high responsibility. Day and night, rain or shine, they wholeheartedly and attentively welcome compatriots and international guests who come to visit Uncle Ho.

Every morning, starting a new day, in summer from 7:30 AM and in winter from 8:00 AM, while carrying out their daily duties, we witness endless streams of people, one after another, in unending lines. People from different ethnic groups, brothers and sisters from all regions, from the farthest corners of the nation, overseas Vietnamese, and international friends come to pay their sincere respects to President Ho Chi Minh. They express admiration for the steadfast communist who devoted his entire life to the independence and freedom of the Motherland.

On that day, it was in autumn with the sky blue and clear sky. It was warm and with a gentle breeze. At 8:08 AM on August 28, 2008. Just like any other day, the special command post of the Special Guard Team in Room B15 (operational duty of the Special Guard Team) had a ringing telephone. I picked up the phone: "Hello, Duty Officer of Team 2 is listening." On the other end of the line, the duty officer of the Combat Operations Department of Unit 275 ordered, "Comrade, go and receive the wreath for a village head family from Ha Giang province." - "Understood." Receiving the order, I acted with great urgency. I stood up and went in front of the command mirror to adjust my uniform solemnly, then went to receive the delegation following the instructions. When leading the delegation, an elderly woman in Northwest ethnic attire led the way, looking very dignified, healthy, and agile. She led the delegation a few more steps and then turned to ask me, "Does Uncle Ho look better this year? His fingers are long and beautiful." She spoke as if to let everyone in the group hear. Before I could say anything, the elderly woman continued, "People coming to see Uncle Ho must be numerous, right? A few years ago, when my husband was still alive, my husband and I went with the province's elderly delegation to visit Uncle Ho. Now, I am old and weak. I don't know how much longer I can live, but I must come to visit Uncle Ho." Although she spoke like that, I understood her deep and emotional feelings for Uncle Ho was much more. The conversation was interrupted as we were about to enter Uncle Ho's resting room. At that moment, a poignant emotion surged within me, it was difficult to articulate in the face of the villagers' sentiments towards Uncle Ho, in which I had a part, and I suddenly recalled what she said... In the room, during those silent moments, I seemed to hear and see the heartfelt emotions of each Mong ethnic person towards Uncle Ho. I glimpsed at her and the delegation, their steps slowing down as if afraid time would pass quickly when approaching Uncle Ho. I signaled the delegation to stop, turned to the left, allowing them to have a better and closer look at Uncle Ho. I noticed tears rolling down her face.

She gazed attentively at Uncle Ho, softly uttering words of prayers... The emotional group was overwhelmed, and tears welled up in everyone's eyes. The delegation seemed to want to linger, not to move on. The special guard comrades signaled the delegation to continue, each person quietly stepping with reluctance, they didn’t want to leave Uncle Ho, they only hoped to be closer to him. Descending each step of the three-level staircase, the elderly woman wiped away her tears and said, "My hometown is far away, in Ha Giang, from 1948 to 1952 when we were young, we joined the Party to move to Viet Bac combat zone, initially we stayed in Dinh Hoa and later we moved to Tin Keo, Dai Tu. I worked in the military kitchen, and my husband worked as a traffic controller. Later, the two of us became husband and wife, and luckily, both of us served Uncle Ho, served the Party”.

I respectfully supported her hand to help her walk steadily, descending each step of the staircase and asking, 'How old are you this year, ma’am?' She replied, 'In the village, they usually call me Giang Mi Mung (Old Mung), of the Mong ethnic group in Yen Minh district, Ha Giang province. I am nearly 80 years old this year.' A few more steps, and she continued, 'You, who serve Uncle Ho here, must strive to do well. During the years in Northern Vietnam, Uncle Ho cared a lot for the ethnic people, especially the Mong people. Once, she said, 'The mountainous compatriots sacrificed a lot for the revolution and now contribute to the resistance.' Thanks to Uncle Ho paving the way and guiding, the Party leadership defeated the enemy, bringing warmth, freedom, and happiness. Therefore, the Mong people remain steadfast, grateful to the Party and Uncle Ho, regretting only the earnest desire burning passionately in the hearts of descendants, old and young, male and female, Mong people wishing to visit Hanoi to meet Uncle Ho once in their lifetime. However, due to the remote and difficult road conditions, many are unable to fulfill that wish".

I only managed to respond, 'Yes, ma’am!' She then turned to speak to her family members in the Mong ethnic language. I didn't understand and didn't find it appropriate to inquire further. I thought about her words, 'You who serve here must do well,' reflected the profound sentiment of someone who had served Uncle Ho, proudly reminding and conveying trust to our soldiers – the next generation must strive to earn the title of 'Guardians by Uncle Ho's side, guarding the sleep of Uncle Ho.' This honor is not easily attainable by anyone in society, emphasizing the pride associated with it.

After guiding the group to the Presidential Palace to visit Uncle Ho's working area when he was alive, before leaving, the old lady held my hand and advised, 'You must do well.' This advice vividly expressed the deep-seated wishes and sentiments of the ethnic groups, insisting on the need to preserve Uncle Ho’s body for future generations to have the opportunity to visit. It instilled a powerful sense of belief in me not only at that moment but throughout my military life. I bid farewell to the group and returned to the control room of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, reporting the entire story to Senior Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Huu Manh, the current commander. After hearing the report, the Political Commissar asked me, 'Did Comrade Quyet capture Old Mung's emotions?' I replied, 'No, sir, I was in a hurry and forgot.' The Political Commissar advised me that next time, in such situations, I should capture the emotions. Once again, I deeply appreciated the Political Commissar's sincere advice and realized the special and noble nature of the task I was undertaking - a sacred mission entrusted by the Party, the people, and the military.

For me, the task of safeguarding Uncle Ho’s body is a significant political task. Therefore, I constantly cultivate and train my revolutionary ethics: hardworking, economical, honest, devoted, and selfless.' I talk to myself: I need to build loyalty and dedication to the work regularly in both tasks and daily life. To execute tasks rigorously, accurately, and solemnly to ensure absolute security during the funeral procession, to maintain high combat readiness to ensure the absolute safety of Uncle Ho's funeral and the Mausoleum. To improve the quality of welcoming, propagating, and guiding domestic and international delegations visiting Uncle Ho. This reflects the deep-seated feelings, responsibilities, and profound love of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command for compatriots and international visitors coming to visit beloved Uncle Ho.

THE AIR DEFENSE UNIT AT UNCLE HO’S MAUSOLEUM

Major PHAM TIEN DONG

Team Leader of Team 2, Unit 275

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

In April 2001, during the 9^th Party Congress held at Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi, Unit 275 of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command was assigned a task: to organize an air defense unit. The unit included Lieutenant Pham Tien Dong as the team leader, and Professional Second Lieutenants Tran Ngoc Duong and Tran Van Quang as team members. These comrades were part of the special reconnaissance forces under Unit 275, possessing good moral qualities, high discipline, experience in organizing observation posts, excellent marksmanship, and good health. Upon receiving the mission, they comprehensively understood the purpose and requirements of the task, sharing a common determination to successfully complete the mission and defeat any aerial activities from hostile forces. Our goal was to contribute to maintaining the political security of the country, especially in the historical area of Ba Dinh, and to contribute to the success of the Party Congress.

The air defense mission included timely observation, detection, communication, and alerting the shelter units, engaging in combat with enemy aircraft causing explosions, limiting explosive activities or spreading leaflets, and protecting the security formation around the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

The air defense unit built a strong determination to carry out the mission based on the guiding ideology: 'Be proactive, courageous in intelligence, have close coordination, and be resolute in fighting for victory.' We actively trained, supplemented their skills, and enhanced combat proficiency. Additional essential knowledge for the air defense mission was acquired, such as characteristics, altitude, and speed of low-flying targets (sports aircraft, small aircraft, etc.). We needed to grasp the tactics of distributing leaflets by subversive elements, who often flew low to avoid anti-aircraft forces, releasing leaflets at predetermined locations, utilizing evening, dawn, or midday to evade our low-altitude firepower; We practiced shooting techniques against low-flying aircraft using infantry guns (observing target detection, posture, shooting movements, etc.). We identified advantages, preparing thoroughly in constructing defensive fortifications, weapon equipment, training in various combat scenarios, and organizing close coordination with forces in the protection area. Simultaneously, they recognized challenges such as mainly relying on naked-eye observation for high-speed targets, shooting low-flying targets using interception methods, and facing difficulties during adverse weather conditions such as light rain or fog, which significantly affected the shooter's visibility and target detection. Engaging low-flying targets demanded a high level of combat readiness, which, when prolonged, affected the health of the military personnel.

The air defense position was assigned on the rooftop of a 5-story building, providing a wide observation range to detect distant targets, control intersections, and traffic axes, protect the security formation, and facilitate the coordination of firepower to eliminate enemy aircraft hovering over the area of the Mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square.

After two months of fulfilling the mission, the Air Defense Unit excelled in completing the assigned task, receiving commendation from the High Command. Lieutenant Pham Tien Dong, personally, was awarded a certificate of merit by Unit 275.

To achieve this result, the team operated 24/24 hours, totaling 1,440 hours without a break, with two personnel on each shift, regardless of weather conditions, continuously observing the sky and the ground. They did not overlook any unusual occurrences, consistently reported promptly, and maintained seamless communication. The air defense unit endured harsh weather conditions, persevering through the scorching heat and intense sunlight, resulting in tanned skin and faded uniforms. Team members continuously rotated shifts, sharing the burning heat of May, feeling as if there was a fire constantly hitting their bodies. During the moments of dizziness and dry throats, they had to change shifts every 15 minutes. Multiple times a day, each person alternated to remain active, going to the lower floors to update superiors on the mission, reporting the situation, eating a meal, providing water for their teammates, and then immediately returning to the high floor for their watch, without a single moment of relaxation or loss of vigilance.

Previously, I was a Navy soldier safeguarding sovereignty, maritime security, and islands in the northern part of the country. I stood guard against the airwaves, where the wind originated, and in distant islands. Although both tasks aimed to ensure security in the sky, between two vast skies of our beloved homeland, now standing guard comes with a different determination, a different will, filled with excitement and pride. It is the task of ‘For a peaceful sleep of Uncle Ho' – a glorious mission that demands absolute safety. It is the execution of a mission right in the heart of the capital, in the historical sky of Ba Dinh – where President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed the Declaration of Independence, giving birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam under the sky where Uncle Ho spent his last breath before departing into eternity. I am so proud to guard the sky with the serene resting place of Uncle Ho within the Mausoleum.

Carrying out a crucial, glorious task, we encountered numerous advantages, but we also couldn't avoid certain difficulties. In the late nights, when the city was quiet under the glow of streetlights, and the citizens of Hanoi were peacefully asleep, our guns were loaded with ammunition. Looking up at the star-filled sky, we couldn't escape moments of introspection, contemplating life and our profession – the military profession – a unique calling that cannot always be put into words. It is not a profession where every shortfall can be compensated, and one of the most formidable deficiencies is family life and the love between couples. Thoughts, emotions, and romantic relationships are challenges for us, soldiers. All three members of the team were preparing to start their own families. Some temporarily postponed introducing their girlfriends to their families, waiting until after the mission. Others had to explain and encourage their relatives about the reasons for being on duty or answer questions like, 'The streets are lively; why do you have to be on duty?". For a long time without meeting and inquiring about our loved ones and friends, despite being stationed amid a bustling urban area, we, from our high vantage point, observed couples strolling arm in arm through the streets, enjoying the tranquility of our beloved capital. Without a high determination, self-discipline, and adherence to regulations, it would be easy to abandon our duty to attend to personal matters, significantly affecting the unit's mission performance. However, our loyalty to the Party, to the homeland, to the long-term preservation of the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh’s body and the Mausoleum's structure, along with the shining qualities of the Mausoleum Protection Force, has been consistently upheld and demonstrated. Every hour, every day, every week, and every month, we maintained a state of high combat readiness, overcoming all difficulties. Throughout the mission, the Air Defense Unit received frequent guidance, inspections, encouragement, and praise from the Chief of High Command and the Chief of Unit 275. The Air Defense Unit successfully completed its mission, ending after two months of maintaining a high state of combat readiness.

Even today, we - the Air Defense Unit of that year - continue to carry out the mission of guarding the Mausoleum, constantly learning from our experiences in security and protection. We wholeheartedly remain faithful to the long-term preservation mission, ensuring the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh’s body and the Mausoleum's structure. We continue to contribute our small efforts, adding to the tradition: 'Loyalty, unity, self-reliance, proactivity, and creativity.' We are always and forever proud, honored to be soldiers guarding within the ranks of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command – the Hero of the People's Armed Forces during the renovation period.

THE WAY TO DA CHONG

Colonel TRAN QUANG CHAU

Former Deputy Chief of Staff

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

I ascend to Da Chong

Fragrance of the forest,

Cool breeze of the river,

My soul feels light,

As if reversing the flow

Of historical time

Here, chosen by Uncle Ho,

With the military strategic view,

And the Poet's soul,

His simple house,

Yet so exquisite.

Uncle Ho approves the sketch,

He sets the foundation markers,

The scenic beauty of nature

Captured in a panoramic view.

As if he looks forward,

To the beloved the South.

I slowly step

Into Uncle Ho's house,

The meeting room,

Still preserved intact,

As if they were discussing

Something important.

I gaze intently

At rows of planted trees,

As if they want

To welcome guests

I walk down each step

To where Uncle Ho rests,

A thousand-year sleep,

Calm and content.

The people's hearts desire

To keep Uncle Ho for generations,

After defeating the enemy,

The South visits Uncle Ho

Following memories,

I suddenly recall

The hilltop,

Gorki, far away,

Where Lenin convalesced,

Unyielding in his hands,

Writing thick documents,

"Revolutionary state,"

Before departing,

Handing it over to the world

Oh, those people,

Noble souls,

We often encounter

Similarities,

Gorki and Da Chong,

Perhaps it’s a coincidence.

THE MARCHING SOLDIER

Lieutenant Colonel BOAN DUC XUAN

Former Research Officer, Political Department

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

Guard soldiers standing firm,

Beside the Mausoleum,

in a solemn stance.

The scent of jasmine gently wafts,

Drifting through the soul of the soldier

Displaying purity in the night,

A pristine white hue engulfs.

Observing the shadows intently,

Emerging from the military camp

Faintly visible in the distance,

Still, a white uniform prevails.

The moonlight glistens,

Illuminating the rhythm of the initial step

Devotedly by beloved Uncle Ho,

You stand guard throughout the shift.

The fragrance of jasmine permeates,

Soothing the soldier's soul

A warrior on guard duty,

Day and night,

beside Uncle Ho's resting place.

Whether in the cold winds of winter,

Or the scorching heat of summer

A steadfast heart remains true,

Guarding unwaveringly beside the Mausoleum.

CHO TREE

Major NGUYEN VAN TAY

Former Foreign Affairs Officer

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

The Cho tree from the Ancestral Land

Now resides in the Capital.

Two rows of straight, upright trees

Like two rows of sentinels.

Guarding the sleep of Uncle Ho,

The Mausoleum is forever in peace.

Whether on the ancestral forest

Or along Hung Vuong Street,

Reaching high towards the sky and clouds,

Casting cool shadows day by day.

THE MAUSOLEUM HIGH COMMAND – A FAITH TO LAST FOREVER

Composed by: Pham Gia Khang

Moderato

The Mausoleum High Command brings enduring faith and united hearts together to protect the peaceful sleep of Uncle Ho. Despite the cold and chilling rain, day and night without pause. The soldiers within the Mausoleum stand solemnly near Uncle Ho

The doctors, engineers, and dedicated workers. Their silent achievements, homeland, oh homeland, rest assured. The soldiers in the Mausoleum always stand by Him

The Mausoleum always stands by Him

From summer to autumn, through winter to the colorful spring, The Mausoleum High Command always safeguards Uncle Ho's peaceful rest. Whether hundreds or thousands of years from now, people will eternally cherish

The deep gratitude towards Uncle Ho

Uncle Ho is still there, a shining example for generations to build upon. Offering fragrant lotus flowers as a tribute to Uncle Ho. The soldiers in the Mausoleum always stand by Him

The Mausoleum always stands by Him

THE GLORY

I am honored to stand by You,

Guarding for your peaceful sleep.

Looks like a perpetual smile on your lips,

Because our country has been united.

And every countryman gathers around,

The Ba Dinh Square to see You.

Fragrant flowers blooming the capital’s sky,

We pledge to You our sacred honor,

For the homeland’s sacrifice,

To guard the nation, to protect the country.

Oh, the crystal clear blue sky in the mornings of May,

We ‘ve come from all directions to get to Ba Dinh.

We carefully watch our steps because Your dream isn’t complete,

Oh, the footsteps resonate with emotion.

We return to You, by Your side,

Don't let tears fall cos / He is resting./ He has just laid down.

Oh, today we join in watching over Your dream.

The echoes of longing in our song,

Generations forever by Your side.

Oh, Uncle, please rest peacefully.

THESE FLOWERS ARE FOR YOU

I walk through the forest and across the stream swiftly, hearing the melodious song of the stream.

I see the forest birds soaring high, playful clouds in the sunny sky.

Today, I visit Uncle Ho, a long-held dream.

I bring beautiful flowers from our mountainous home to lay at Uncle Ho’s Mausoleum.

The banyan tree from Tan Trao is still here.

White orchids are brought from the Northwest to the Mausoleum.

Peach blossoms from Son La bloom as spring arrives.

Together, they paint a picture of the homeland in the mountainous region.

I am a girl from the border mountains, traveling a long journey to visit Uncle Ho.

I am so joyful, oh Uncle.

My village is grateful to Uncle Ho and the Communist Party.

Every step I take represents my homeland’s way of life.

My village is truly thankful to Uncle Ho, and these beautiful wildflowers are dedicated to You.

Beside the Mausoleum in Autumn

Composed by: Tran Vu Trang

Beside the Mausoleum, in autumn for many years,

For those who went far, the longing for You never ceases.

The country still has the Party's ideals, the people's love, left for You, who left us.

Oh, sacred will. Your loving words, dear father, always be remembered throughout life.

Tomorrow, when I return to the South, how can I forget Your figure, the delicate cloth on the pebble path.

As if You left in the final moment.

Oh, the South in Your heart, the South forever remembers day and night, eagerly awaiting Your visit.

Why did You leave from that day at Ben Ngoc Rong for the children to forever hope.

Oh, even if that river dries up someday, even if that mountain erodes, the people's hearts will never fade.

For countless generations after You, You will always be here.

Oh, Vietnam, shining for a thousand years, Ho Chi Minh.

Our Father, You live forever with the nation for a thousand years.

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Insider’ Memories

(First edition)

Chapter 2

Publication: Director – Chief of Editor, MSc PHAM VAN TRUONG

Manuscript: Director – Chief of Editor, MSc PHAM VAN TRUONG

Editors: DAU XUAN LUAN, LE THI NGA PHUONG, NGUYEN THI MINH THUY

Formatting and proofreading: HOANG LAN ANH

Cover: PHAM THI HA

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Printed: 4^th Quarter - 2022

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ISBN: 978-604-51-8383-0

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[*] To continue spreading the value of the book, we are reprinting the entire two-volume set and preserving all the documents and events from that period.

[2] Ho Chi Minh, Complete set, Vol. 15, National Political Publishing House, Hanoi, 2011, p. 618.

President Ho Chi Minh mausoleum: insiders memories - Chapter 2 (2024)

Introduction

40 YEARS OF LOYALTY BESIDE THE PRESIDENT

GLORY STANDING BESIDE THE PRESIDENT

VIETNAMESE PEOPLE WILL FOREVER ADMIRE AND EXPRESS THEIR RESPECT FOR THE GREAT PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH

FIRST DAYS OF PRESERVING UNCLE HO’S BODY

MISS MY SOVIET FRIENDS

A SCIENTIST WITH GREAT CONTRIBUTION TO THE LONG-TERM PRESERVATION AND ABSOLUTE SAFETY PROTECTION OF PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH’S BODY

MY CX-73 TEAM

THE EARLY DAYS OF CONDUCTING FLAG RAISING CEREMONY IN FRONT OF PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH'S MAUSOLEUM

HARNESSING INNER STRENGTH FROM THE SMALLEST ACTIONS

FOREST BELT OF THE K9 HISTORICAL RELIC AREA – DA CHONG

UNCLE HO IN OUR MEMORABLE HEARTS

THE GREAT HAPPINESS OF A VETERAN

THE BAR SOAP

THE SOLIDER GUARDING THE MAUSOLEUM

SOLDIERS BY THE MAUSOLEUM TELL STORIES ABOUT UNCLE HO

HONORED AND PROUD

WELCOMING THE HEAD OF A VILLAGE TO VISIT THE MAUSOLEUM

THE AIR DEFENSE UNIT AT UNCLE HO’S MAUSOLEUM

THE WAY TO DA CHONG

THE MARCHING SOLDIER

CHO TREE

THE MAUSOLEUM HIGH COMMAND – A FAITH TO LAST FOREVER

THESE FLOWERS ARE FOR YOU

Beside the Mausoleum in Autumn