Top leader honours Division 308’s 75 years of valour, service

Party General Secretary and State President Tô Lâm and the delegation of the liaison board of the veterans of Division 308 in Hà Nội on Thursday. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Party General Secretary and State President Tô Lâm met with a delegation of the liaison board of the veterans of Division 308, also known as Tiền Phong (Vanguard) Brigade, in Hanoi on August 8 on the occasion of the division’s 75th founding anniversary.

Established on August 28, 1949 in Đồn Du town of Phú Lương District, the northern province of Thái Nguyên, Brigade 308, now Division 308, was the first strategic reserve mobile regular unit of the Việt Nam People’s Army (VPA). Its name echoes through history, synonymous with legendary victories such as the Border Campaign (Fall-Winter 1950), the Battle of Điện Biên Phủ, the Route 9 – Khe Sanh and Route 9 – Southern Laos campaigns, and the defence of Quang Trị Ancient Citadel.

On January 15, 1976, the division was bestowed the title “Hero of the People’s Armed Forces”, with 12 collectives and 11 individuals receiving or posthumously awarded the same honour. Many officers and soldiers have also earned distinguished accolades. The division’s prowess and dedication were personally commended by President Hồ Chí Minh on five occasions.

Over its 75-year history, Division 308 has produced many senior military officials, scientists, and artists who have significantly contributed to the national construction and defence.

At the meeting, General Secretary and President Lâm lauded the division’s impressive achievements and heroic spirit, noting that each era of Việt Nam’s struggle for independence has been marked with Division 308’s feats of arms and indomitable resolve. Known as the “Steel Fist” of the VPA, the division’s legacy continues to inspire.

He called on the division’s veterans to uphold the noble qualities of “Uncle Ho’s Soldiers”, build on the unit’s heroic tradition, and lead by example in their families and communities.

They were also encouraged to unite, overcome challenges, and contribute to local socio-economic development.

Meanwhile, officers and soldiers currently serving in the division and the Ministry of National Defence’s units were asked to carry forward the VPA and the division’s glorious traditions, improve their capacity, and maintain combat readiness to fulfil all assigned tasks.

The leader also told the Ministry of National Defence, the Việt Nam Veterans’ Association, and the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs to hold more practical activities to foster patriotism, self-reliance, and collective efforts in national construction and defence, particularly among the youth both within and outside the army. — VNS