Lao Cai strives to "return names" to unknown martyrs

In the scorching sun of June, at Minh Bao Martyrs' Cemetery (Nam Cuong ward, Lao Cai province) - the resting place of 200 martyrs, the working atmosphere is still urgent.

Nearly 150 graves that have not been identified are being sampled for DNA testing, opening up hope for the journey of searching for information about martyrs after many decades.

The work took place with absolute caution. After completing the incense offering and memorial rituals, functional forces proceeded to excavate each grave. Many graves were built solidly through many periods, making it difficult to access the remains.

Specialized hammers and chisels are continuously used to dismantle the thick concrete layer before the task force can approach inside.

At Yen Binh Martyrs' Cemetery, where there are 157 martyrs' graves, of which 108 graves have not been identified, the working atmosphere is also urgent.

Under temporary tarpaulins amidst the scorching sun and sudden rains, specialized forces still persistently perform each stage according to professional procedures.

In just 5 days, the locality completed the sampling for DNA testing. This result was achieved thanks to the synchronous involvement of the entire political system, from site preparation, information review to supporting forces directly performing tasks.

Every time we participate in taking samples, we are aware that this is not simply a professional task but also a responsibility, a tribute to the heroic martyrs," Lieutenant Colonel Tran Duc Vu, Commander of the Military Command of Yen Binh commune shared.

Not only is it a technical work, each collected biological sample also sends the hope of thousands of families of martyrs across the country. Many relatives have waited for decades to get accurate information about their loved ones.

According to the Lao Cai Provincial Military Command, after more than 2 months of deploying the campaign, the unit has mobilized over 2,200 turns of officers and soldiers to participate in performing the task.

In addition to searching for and collecting 13 martyrs' remains, functional forces have taken DNA samples of 931 out of a total of 1,262 graves at 10/15 martyrs' cemeteries in phase 1 of the plan.

After 2 months of implementation, the "500-day and night campaign to search, repatriate and identify martyrs' remains" in Lao Cai province has achieved important results.

The high determination of all levels, sectors and forces directly performing the task is gradually realizing the goal of identifying martyrs who lack information, fulfilling the noble morality of "When drinking water, remember the source" of the nation," Colonel Hoang Van Toan - Deputy Political Commissar of the Provincial Military Command, Deputy Head of the Steering Committee for searching, repatriating and identifying martyrs' remains of Lao Cai province expressed.

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