Inside the barracks, recruits are learning the regulated lifestyle of the military. In every corner of the rooms, the image of young soldiers focused on learning how to fold blankets, arrange gear, or scrub floors has become a familiar sight. These are the first lessons in internal affairs that every recruit must master, forming the foundation of a soldier’s neatness and discipline.

Among the new faces is Nguyễn Quốc Khánh, who volunteered for service in 2026 after graduating from the Trade Union University nearly four years ago. As a university graduate entering a strictly disciplined environment, Khánh initially faced some surprises. However, fueled by a desire to self-improve and serve the Fatherland, he has quickly adapted.

“Over the past week, I have gradually become accustomed to the rhythm of the unit. In the coming time, I will strive to promote my abilities and successfully complete all tasks assigned by my superiors,” Khánh shared.

During breaks on the training field, unit officers take the opportunity to visit and encourage the recruits. In this open and close atmosphere, soldier Lại Huy Hiệu of Company 3 shared his story. A 2023 graduate of the Hưng Yên University of Technology and Education, Hiệu wrote a volunteer application to fulfill his dream of protecting the country. While the initial homesickness was unavoidable, the dedicated guidance of the officers and the camaraderie of his fellow soldiers helped him integrate quickly.

Similarly, Nguyễn Hữu Dũng, a recent high school graduate, joined Company 4 to contribute his youth to the nation. Tasks that seemed simple at home, like folding clothes or cleaning a room, now require a level of precision he had never practiced before. With help from his comrades, Dũng is stepping into his new role with confidence.

In 2026, Điện Biên province was assigned a quota of 850 citizens for military service, distributed among Regiment 741, the provincial Border Guard Command, and Regiment 82 (Division 355, Military Region 2). Infantry Battalion 1 alone received 300 citizens in this enlistment drive.

The initial phase is considered crucial for helping recruits transition into military life. Therefore, the unit focuses heavily on education regarding discipline, collective living, political ideology, and the traditions of the Vietnam People’s Army. Major Thào A Lồng, Political Officer of Infantry Battalion 1, emphasized the importance of this period: “We are determined to create the best conditions for new soldiers to integrate quickly. Officers at all levels stay close to the recruits, providing encouragement to help them stabilize their psychology and gradually train to become good soldiers.”

The journey of these new recruits is just beginning. Within the environment of discipline and comradeship, these young men are taking their first meaningful steps toward maturity.