At just 20 years old, this is already the third time that Nông Thanh Thưởng from Pa Pe village, Thanh Nưa commune has volunteered to enlist. “I wanted to join the army as soon as I turned 18, but my health didn’t meet the requirements in the previous two recruitment seasons,” he shared.

Still nurturing his dream of wearing the soldier’s green uniform, Thưởng wrote another volunteer application early this year. Unlike many others who may feel anxious about the disciplined lifestyle in the military, he is confident and eager to learn, train, and mature in the army environment.

Sharing the same aspiration, many other young men in Thanh Nưa commune have also submitted voluntary enlistment applications.

Following the example of his older brother, who served three years ago and became noticeably more mature and resilient after demobilization, Lò Quốc Khánh from Phai Đin Village expressed his determination to follow in his brother’s footsteps.

“When I visited him in the army, I saw their strict routines, tidy living, and discipline. That experience strengthened my desire to join,” Khánh said. “I want to challenge myself, grow stronger, and contribute in my own way to the defense of the Fatherland.”

According to Lò Xuân Hà, Commander of the Thanh Nưa commune Military Command, even before official summons were issued, many volunteer applications had already been submitted. So far, 18 young men have volunteered to join the army. Their initiative has sparked great enthusiasm for this year’s recruitment season.

In Tuần Giáo, Lại Huy Hiệu, a recent graduate from the University of Technical Education, also decided to enlist voluntarily instead of seeking a stable job. “Young people need experiences and a sense of responsibility toward their family and homeland,” he explained. “Work can wait, but fulfilling one’s sacred duty to the country only happens once in a lifetime. I want to live my youth with meaning.”

Initially, Hiệu’s parents were concerned about his choice, fearing he would miss career opportunities. But his sincerity and strong desire to serve eventually persuaded them.

His father, Lại Huy Minh, proudly said: “In the initial health screening, he was rated as Type 1, one of the best in the commune. I hope he will pass the next selection round and fulfill his wish.”

Similarly, in Tuần Giáo commune, four young men have already submitted volunteer enlistment applications, reflecting not only civic responsibility but also the success of the commune’s efforts in educating and guiding its youth.

These volunteer applications from young people across Điện Biên province symbolize a powerful desire to contribute to the nation’s defense. They mark the spirit of enthusiasm and dedication defining this year’s recruitment season, laying a strong foundation for successful enlistment efforts in 2026, both in quality and in meeting assigned targets.