Following three months of intensive training, these young servicemen stand on the threshold of a solemn oath-taking ceremony and a new chapter filled with opportunities to contribute and grow. The skills, knowledge and qualities forged during this demanding period will serve as valuable foundations as they continue along the path ahead.
Through effective recruitment and selection processes at the local level, Battalion 2 of Regiment 4 under Division 5 of Military Region 7 has improved the quality of its recruits from the outset. This reflects the unit’s proactive and methodical approach to organising and implementing its training mission.
In 2026, the battalion received more than 500 recruits from localities across Military Region 7, including Dong Nai, Ho Chi Minh City, Tay Ninh and Lam Dong. Each recruit arrived with a different background, personality, educational level and life experience, together forming a diverse portrait of today’s generation of young soldiers.
Filled with youthful enthusiasm, the new recruits of Battalion 2 have gradually adapted to the unique demands of military life, where discipline and collective spirit are placed above all else. For many, these differences presented considerable challenges during the early stages of adjusting to the regimented daily routine and training programme.
Strict timekeeping, disciplined conduct, proper speech and professional bearing were emphasised by officers at all levels from the very first day of enlistment. Training activities were organised scientifically and tailored to each stage of a recruit’s development.
Unevenly folded blankets, morning fitness drills lacking synchronisation, imprecise drill movements and repeated corrections during live-fire practice all reflected the genuine early experiences of young men embarking on military service.
For many recruits, separation from family, friends and loved ones also brought moments of homesickness during the initial period of enlistment. Yet behind these private concerns lay a strong determination to overcome difficulties and successfully complete recruit training.
Among them are many who recently graduated from colleges and universities, as well as others who had stable jobs but willingly set aside personal plans to fulfil their sacred duty to the nation.
Private La Van Thuc of Company 7, Battalion 2, is one such example. Reflecting on his training experience, he said: "As we prepare for the oath-taking ceremony, not only I but many of my comrades often think back to our first days in the military. The initial unfamiliarity presented numerous challenges. However, thanks to the guidance and support of squad leaders, platoon leaders, commanders at all levels and my own determination, I have gradually pushed beyond my limits and become ready to face difficulties in order to improve and mature day by day."
Although three months of recruit training is not a long period, the demanding training schedule and comprehensive curriculum covering politics, military skills, physical fitness, logistics, technical knowledge and tactics provide sufficient time for each young soldier to gain valuable experience and develop a deeper understanding of military life.
Looking back on their journey, many recruits recognise significant changes in themselves, from awareness and conduct to determination and sense of responsibility. The noble qualities associated with the Vietnamese soldier have gradually been cultivated through both thought and action. Their growth is evident not only on the training ground but also through the unit’s rich cultural and spiritual life.
Through cultural, artistic and sporting activities, many recruits have gained confidence in showcasing their talents and integrating into the collective. Events such as singing festivals for new soldiers, group dance competitions, sporting exchanges, birthday celebrations, youth forums and discussion sessions have fostered a healthy and humane military culture. These activities have helped recruits develop essential skills, enrich their emotional lives and strengthen morale throughout the training period.
Particularly noteworthy were the assessments known as the “three explosive events”, comprising live-fire shooting, grenade throwing and explosive charge deployment. All recruits successfully completed the tasks, achieving results higher than those recorded in 2025 while maintaining absolute safety for personnel and equipment. The outcomes were highly commended by the leadership of the regiment, division and military region.
The sun-scorched training grounds of the eastern region have borne witness to the sweat, perseverance and growth of a new generation of soldiers. Their progress provides an important foundation for the unit to continue advancing to more demanding training programmes, contributing to the development of a revolutionary, regular, elite and modern Viet Nam People’s Army.
Major Nguyen Van Hoan, Commander of Battalion 2, said: "In 2026, our unit was once again entrusted with the task of training new recruits. From the beginning of the year, the Party committee and commanding officers proactively developed leadership resolutions, programmes and training plans closely aligned with practical requirements. What brings us the greatest satisfaction is witnessing the steady progress of our soldiers. Their growth motivates officers and troops alike to continue striving for excellence and fulfilling every mission entrusted to us in the future."
Throughout their military journey, recruits have benefited from the support, encouragement and guidance of commanders, comrades, unit organisations and their families back home. From barracks to training grounds, from strenuous exercises in harsh weather conditions to weekend family visits, this support has remained a constant source of strength, helping them overcome difficulties and gain confidence in themselves and their responsibilities.
Pham The Tuan, father of Private Pham The Vinh of Company 8, Battalion 2, shared his thoughts: "Our family lives in Chon Thanh, Dong Nai Province, quite far from where the unit is stationed, so during the three-month training period we were only able to visit him a few times. Every visit to the barracks brings special emotions. There is concern when seeing the hardships these young men endure, but even greater is the joy and pride of watching my son become more mature and resilient. After three months of training, he has grown tremendously compared with the young man who once lived under our care."
Every new recruit carries a personal story of aspiration, dedication and self-improvement. Military service therefore serves not only as a place to forge determination and resilience, but also as a great school of youth, where positive values are nurtured each day.
From today’s training grounds, countless young soldiers are carrying forward the traditions of their heroic unit through their enthusiasm, sense of responsibility and aspirations for self-improvement. These qualities will remain invaluable assets as they continue to grow and prove worthy of the trust placed in them by the Party, the State, the military and the people.
