About 5km from Moc Chau town (Son La), the small Pa Phach village is brimming with joy and pride these days. In the 2025 military recruitment round, two young Hmong men from the village, Vang A Hien (born in 2005) and Vang A Minh (born in 2006), were honored to be selected for military service and will enlist early in 2025.
With the spirit of readiness to serve their country, they carry not only their families’ trust but also the hopes and pride of the entire village.
In the modest family home, the day before enlistment, Vang A Minh meticulously folded each piece of military gear, carefully arranging them into his backpack as if preparing for the most meaningful journey of his life.
Holding the green military uniform in his hands, Minh’s eyes shone with pride and excitement: “Since I heard that I was selected for military service, I’ve been feeling nervous, even losing sleep on some nights. I’m so happy to wear this sacred uniform.”
Vang A Giang (Minh’s father) stood there, watching every move of his son with undeniable pride. He carefully helped adjust the uniform, his hands trembling slightly as he smoothed out the fabric.
This moment was not just the pride of a father, but also a special milestone where he saw his son mature, wearing the sacred military uniform, carrying trust, responsibility, and love for the nation.
Vang A Giang emotionally recounted, his voice deep but filled with pride mixed with emotion:
“My son has always admired soldiers. Even before he was old enough, he told us he wanted to get a medical check-up. Minh said that if he got selected, he would enlist without hesitation. His determination makes our family both proud and deeply moved.”
Pausing briefly, he wiped his eyes quickly, speaking more slowly: “For me, my son being selected is a great honor. I believe the military environment will help him grow stronger and learn valuable lessons.”
“In the past, we were poor and struggled, so we couldn’t study much. Now, seeing my son grow up and step into military service fills me with joy, though I can’t hide my sadness at having to part with him,” Giang added.
Growing up in the loving arms of his family, Minh was accustomed to studying and helping his parents with farming whenever he had free time. Now, he is preparing to embark on a new journey, living far from home in a disciplined military environment.
Relatives and loved ones couldn’t hide their emotions as they came to bid farewell to Minh. Firm handshakes and heartfelt words of encouragement added strength, helping Minh feel more confident as he embarks on his mission to serve the country.
Having experienced years of poverty and interrupted education, Giang placed all his hopes in his son. He believes the military will shape Minh into the strong man he always envisioned.
Recognizing the immense love and hope his family has for him, Vang A Minh entrusted his older brother to care for the family and assist his parents in all tasks. Minh hopes everyone at home will feel reassured while he fulfills his military duty, continuing the path of serving the nation.
Alongside warm words of encouragement from family, local leaders and officials also visited to motivate and inspire Minh, adding strength and positive energy to help him confidently step into his new journey.
Vang A Hien couldn’t hide his pride and excitement as he prepared to enlist. The day before departure, his family held an intimate meal, inviting relatives to announce that their son would join the military. Everyone felt proud and overjoyed to witness this important turning point in Hien’s life.
In his green military uniform, Vang A Hien appeared optimistic and full of enthusiasm, warmly shaking hands with each family member before departure. His cheerfulness and strength somewhat eased the family’s worries, making them feel proud and reassured as they watched their son embark on this meaningful new chapter.
For Vang A Hien, his wife, whom he married just over a month ago, plays a crucial role in his life. Upon hearing the news of her husband’s selection, Hien’s wife couldn’t hide her mixed emotions—feeling both proud and sorrowful for not having spent enough time together as a married couple.
Seeing tears roll down his wife’s cheeks, Hien tried to comfort her, instilling optimism to keep her strong. This was also a significant source of motivation for him to complete his duties and return to his beloved wife.
The villagers are filled with trust and pride as two outstanding young men from the village are chosen to serve in the military. They hope that after their training, both will return with valuable knowledge and qualities, continuing to serve the nation and contribute to the development of their community.
