Militia and Self-Dense forces - "Iron Wall" firmly protects the Fatherland

Over the past 90 years, under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the militia and self-defense forces across the country, particularly in Binh Duong province, have continuously grown and matured. They have achieved many outstanding accomplishments, contributing significantly to the cause of national liberation as well as the construction and defense of the Fatherland. They truly serve as an "Iron Wall," firmly protecting the nation.

“An invincible force”

During his lifetime, President Ho Chi Minh once affirmed: “The militia and guerrillas are the forces of the entire nation, an invincible force, an iron wall of the Fatherland. No matter how fierce the enemy is, once you come into contact with that force, that wall, any enemy will have to disintegrate”. History has proven that the Vietnam Militia and Self-Dense forces under the leadership of the Party is a loyal and devoted armed force, playing an important role in the great victory of the cause of national liberation and defense of the Fatherland. Over the past 90 years, every historical journey and feat of the nation has been marked by the great contributions of militia and self-dense forces. Many militia and self-defense officers and soldiers fought heroically, sacrificed or silently devoted themselves to the revolutionary cause.

Colonel Pham Van Kien, Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the Provincial Military Command, said that in Thu Dau Mot province, now Binh Duong, from its founding until the August Revolution in 1945, the militia and self-defense forces coordinated with the masses to rise up and seize power, making an important contribution to the cause of national liberation. Over nine long years of fighting against French colonialism, the provincial militia and guerrilla forces grew stronger and more unified. They were supported and protected by the people and bolstered by significant revolutionary bases, such as Long Nguyen War Zone, D War Zone, Thuan An Hoa War Zone, Vinh Loi War Zone... and coordinated with local troops and main force troops to establish resounding victories. The soldiers in grey cloth and bare feet but with iron will made resounding achievements, contributing with the whole country to the historic victory of Dien Bien Phu, ending the domination of French colonialism in our country.

Entering the period of resistance against the US, the provincial militia and self-defense forces participated in most of the large and small battles, such as Mau Than in 1968, Nguyen Hue campaign in 1972, and the peak was the Ho Chi Minh campaign in 1975 to liberate the South and unify the country. They were steadfast soldiers, fighting side by side with the main force, fighting the enemy with many flexible forms that world military art had never recorded in books. The sacrifices, achievements and contributions of many generations of militia and self-defense soldiers contributed significantly to the Great Victory of Spring 1975.

Proud of the "square-star" soldier

Today, the militia and self-defense forces are established with the motto "Strong, Widespread." They focus on quality by gradually innovating their training content and operational methods based on the principles of being "Basic, Practical, and High-Quality." The goal of building these forces is to create a comprehensive and robust foundation that helps counter the strategy of "Peaceful Evolution" and the violent overthrow attempts by hostile entities. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on developing exemplary models of militia and self-defense forces alongside various creative strategies. For example, there are “3 have” program (“Having a Party organization”, “having a strong and widespread force associated with building a beautiful image of the militia and self-defense forces”, “having a new working headquarters, improving cultural and spiritual life and preferential policies for the militia and self-defense forces” of the whole province); “One historical site each month”, “Warrior nursery” and “Saving allowances for tomorrow’s career” …

With the implementation of an appropriate and reasonable policy, the establishment of militia forces at the commune and district levels is not only ensured but also leads to the robust development of militia and self-defense forces in industrial zones and clusters. Currently, Binh Duong province has established 5 permanent militia platoons operating in 5 industrial parks, along with 83 units comprising 1,860 officers and soldiers in FDI enterprises.

These forces serve not only as a core component of local defense but also play a crucial role in maintaining security and order in industrial zones and clusters, where many workers live and work. Additionally, these militia and self-defense models have been recognized by the Ministry of National Defense and Military Region 7 as exemplary practices, making them sites for visits and learning experiences.

Colonel Pham Van Kien said: “With the motto “Stick to the area - Maintain security - Accompany workers”, the militia and self-defense forces in industrial parks and clusters are well-organized and work closely with functional agencies and enterprises. They increase patrols and conduct sweeps to promptly prevent violations of the law and address incidents that may lead to social insecurity and disorder. The presence of these forces in factories and enterprises acts as a strong shield, contributing to the establishment of a safe and stable working environment”.

During the outbreak of the Covid-19 epidemic, the militia and self-defense forces demonstrated their crucial role. They faced numerous challenges while actively participating in controlling checkpoints, supporting quarantine areas, and transporting essential supplies to locked-down regions. Their contributions were instrumental in helping Binh Duong navigate these difficult times, quickly restore production, and promote socio-economic development.

During the most challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic, the militia and self-defense forces contributed significantly by providing 985,580 working days, establishing 3,640 stations and guard posts, and organizing 2,235 patrol teams. Additionally, they transported over 35,000 patients to treatment areas, assisted in loading more than 7,500 tons of goods, distributed 872,600 gifts to those in need, and conducted disinfection spraying over more than 17,500 hectares. These efforts have fostered strong trust among the Party, State, and the people, leaving a positive impression and showcasing the true nature of "Square-Star Soldiers."

Over the past 90 years, from the days of barefoot soldiers in combat to the modern, silent square-star soldiers stationed in bustling urban areas and industrial parks, the militia and self-defense forces of Binh Duong have consistently provided strong support for the homeland. Moving forward, they will remain ready, resilient, and steadfast in their commitment to ensuring peace for the people and promoting the development of their homeland and country.

Reported by Thu Thao - Translated by Ngoc Huynh