Điện Biên province, a historic land known for its valor and sacrifice, has borne witness to the loss and suffering of countless Vietnamese in the struggle for national liberation. Many laid down their lives here in pursuit of a noble ideal. In recognition of their sacrifices, the Party, State, and people of all ethnic groups have remained united in upholding this tradition of gratitude, ensuring both the material and spiritual well-being of those who served and their families.

Lighting incense at the A1 National Martyrs’ Cemetery, war veteran Nguyễn Đình Khảm from Hanoi expressed his emotions: “As July 27 - war invalids and martyrs’ Day - approaches, we came to Điện Biên to pay tribute to those who gave their lives for the nation. This act of remembrance not only honors their sacrifice but also teaches the next generation about the importance of gratitude. It instills in them a greater appreciation of the past and a sense of responsibility for the future.”

In the final days of July, as the nation collectively reflects, streams of people from across Vietnam visit cemeteries in Điện Biên to offer incense and pay respects to the fallen heroes who gave their lives for the country’s freedom. Carrying forward the spirit of remembrance, Viettel Điện Biên, in partnership with the Hồ Chí Minh Communist Youth Union of the province, organized a memorial program to light incense and replace plastic flowers on graves at the A1, Tông Khao, Độc Lập, and Him Lam cemeteries.

Lieutenant Colonel Phạm Ngọc Quý, Deputy Director of Viettel Điện Biên, shared: “With deep respect and a strong sense of responsibility, Viettel Điện Biên has long supported local authorities and communities in gratitude initiatives. We regularly organize activities such as visits, gifts for policy beneficiary families and war invalids, and cooperate in efforts to replace 100% of grave flowers across the province’s cemeteries. This reflects Viettel’s commitment to compassion and remembrance, a core part of our corporate culture.”

Amid the solemn atmosphere of the cemeteries, surrounded by incense smoke, many young visitors are visibly moved as they see row upon row of gravestones, many without names. These silent sacrifices have paved the way for today’s peace. Before the altars of these martyrs, each young person offers incense with heartfelt reverence. Nguyễn Duy Tân, a student at Điện Biên vocational College, shared: “Standing here, I can truly feel the immense sacrifice of our heroes. It strengthens our sense of patriotism and reminds us of our duty to honor our past and build the future.”

Today, Điện Biên province is home to over 16,000 individuals eligible for the State’s support, including revolutionary contributors, war invalids, and families of martyrs. In recent years, local authorities have consistently focused on improving both the material and spiritual lives of these groups. Across all levels, relevant agencies have implemented state policies promptly and effectively, while also promoting meaningful community-driven initiatives.

In addition to regular visits and gift-giving on national holidays and July 27, the province has funded home repairs, upgrades, and new housing projects for beneficiary families, helping them lead stable lives. Economic support programs have also been rolled out to improve incomes and living standards. These tangible, heartfelt efforts represent the deep gratitude of the Party, State, and people of Điện Biên for those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Vừ A Bằng emphasized: “In recent years, Điện Biên has closely followed central directives in caring for policy beneficiaries. Authorities at all levels have prioritized both physical and mental well-being through various support mechanisms. In the first six months of this year alone, nearly 6,000 gift packages were distributed. As of July 1, local governments have been directed to build on these efforts in preparation for July 27.”

He added that the province continues to prioritize eliminating substandard housing for war invalids and policy families. Today, 100% of such families have received support to build solid homes, in line with the Prime Minister’s directive. Thanks to these efforts, 99.82% of all policy beneficiary households in the province now have living standards at or above the provincial average. The province also places special emphasis on preserving martyr gravesites, maintaining memorials, and welcoming visiting delegations, a solemn gesture of ongoing respect.

The peace, prosperity, and happiness Vietnam enjoys today came at a high cost, paid for in sweat, tears, and blood. Remembering and supporting those who sacrificed is not just a regular political duty, but a sacred responsibility shared by the entire Party, people, and armed forces. With this spirit, Điện Biên continues to carry out meaningful actions that bring comfort and hope to war invalids and martyr families, empowering them to rise above hardship and contribute to the province’s development.