Vietnam’s Truong Sa Islands (also known as the Spratly Islands) are enjoying a rare level of all-around growth and development. Civilians and soldiers on the islands have been working side by side, not only to build the islands’ communities, but to safeguard the nation as well.
The islands, which are located towards the southern edge of the East Sea, include over 100 islands, reefs and atolls. They cover a total area of about 170 square kilometres, with uprising lands of the islands occupying just 10 square kilometres.
Upon visiting the Vietnamese territory of the islands, the whole of this work team, No 10, was unable to express in words their feelings when they set foot on the islands for the first time and witnessed the cozy lives and solidarity of the local residents and soldiers.
Below are several pictures highlighting the unique features of Truong Sa:
Truong Sa soldiers welcome guests
National landmarks of Truong Sa
Lighthouse on Song Tu Tay Island
“Phong ba” tree...
... “Bao tap” tree...
...and the “Bang vuong” tree which grows only on Truong Sa
The islands’ electricity is provided by wind power…
…as well as solar power. This technology, which powers the entire island group, has not yet been used on the mainland.
Mobile coverage helps reduce the distance from island to mainland
Weather information is checked daily for the Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting of the Southern and Central areas
Fishing is a primary livelihood on the islands
Houses are well-equipped
All residents here revere Uncle Ho
Here vegetable is particularly precious
Saltwater fish enriches daily meals
Dogs are looked after carefully
Cows are a rather “rare” animal…
…and pigs…
…as well as ducks splash in the surf.
Military notices are strictly upheld
Beds kept neat and tidy according to military discipline
Soldiers taking care of a routine haircut after work
Sport activities
Naval soldiers guarding and protecting the Truong Sa islands for the sovereignty of the country
