At the Huổi Máy border point, part of the Tây Trang International Border Gate Border Post under the provincial Border Guard Command, officers and soldiers have set aside personal joys to carry out their duties, ensuring peace for the people to celebrate the holiday.

Tết for these soldiers does not feature vibrant fireworks or the complete warmth of a family gathering. Instead, it consists of day-and-night shifts, patrol trips along the border, and simple meals in challenging conditions. At the Huổi Máy border control post, patrol and control activities are maintained strictly and without interruption, even during the transition to the new year.

Non-commissioned Major Phạm Văn Toại at the Huổi Máy border point shared that in his 18-year career, he has spent 10 years celebrating Tết at his unit or post. During his breaks, he often searches for a signal to call home and wish his family a happy new year. He and his comrades constantly remind each other to stay focused, as any lapse could be exploited by individuals for illegal entry or to disrupt security along the border line.

The Huổi Máy border point is responsible for managing over 4km of the border adjacent to Lào. During the Tết holiday, the unit maintains a 24-hour duty cycle, increasing patrols and blocking points along the entire route to promptly detect and prevent illegal acts and unauthorized border crossings. alongside their defense duties, the soldiers coordinate with local authorities to visit and encourage residents in the border area, strengthening the bond between the military and the people.

Lieutenant Lù Văn Quân, Head of the Huổi Máy border point and Head of the Reconnaissance Team at the Tây Trang International Border Gate Border Post, described the road to the post as consisting mostly of steep, difficult dirt paths. While motorbikes can reach the post during the dry season, the rainy season often requires traveling by foot. The rugged and slippery terrain requires those traveling to be well-acquainted with the paths and maintain a steady hand. Despite the lack of amenities at the post, the soldiers live by a shared mindset.

“We always keep in mind that the station is home and the border is our hometown. Every mission must be completed, and we must uphold the ten oaths of honor of a soldier.”

Despite the limited conditions, the atmosphere of spring at the post is carefully prepared by the officers and soldiers. A five-fruit tray, self-wrapped chưng cakes, or a branch of wild peach blossoms brought in for decoration are enough to create a warm Tết flavor. These gatherings and conversations help the men ease their homesickness and tighten their solidarity.

Lieutenant Lù Văn Quân further noted that Tết at the post is simple but heartfelt. Although they are far from their families, all personnel identify their political mission as the primary focus, with the highest goal being to ensure that the people in the area celebrate a peaceful Tết. Throughout the holiday duty period, the post ensures full staffing and strict control of the border and landmarks to prevent any illegal activities.

While there are moments of longing for the warmth of family, the responsibility of a border guard leads every officer and soldier to set aside personal feelings to maintain their positions and remain combat-ready. The encouragement from their families and the people in the border area serves as the motivation for them to remain firm in their duties. Tết at the frontier may not be filled with bright colors or grand feasts, but it is steeped in the sense of responsibility and the resilient will of the “green-rank” soldiers. Their silent sacrifice contributes to maintaining peace at the frontline, making every spring for the people more complete.