Prime Minister inspects combat readiness at Division 312

Thai Nguyen (VNA) – Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc inspected the combat readiness of Division 312, one of the first regular divisions of the Vietnam People’s Army, at its headquarters in Pho Yen district, the northern province of Thai Nguyen on January 24.

Division 312, also called Division “Chien thang” (Victorious), launched a maiden fight against the French outpost at Him Lam Hill, part of France’s garrison at Dien Bien Phu in 1954. It captured Christian de Castries – French commander there, helping Vietnam win the Dien Bien Phu Campaign and end France’s rule in Indochina.

Reporting the Division’s operational training to the Government leader, the division commander said they have worked hard to be responsive to any situation. Efforts have also been made to improve soldiers’ material and spiritual life and reinforce connections with local administration and people.

At the meeting, PM Phuc highlighted the glorious traditions and undaunted fighting spirit of Division 312, especially during the Dien Bien Phu Campaign and the Ho Chi Minh Campaign, which reunified Vietnam in 1975. About 100 people holding high-ranking positions in the army throughout history used to serve at this unit.

He spoke highly of the Division’s comprehensive attainments, particularly in addressing difficulties to fulfill all assigned tasks.

As Division 312’s camp is located at a gateway of the capital city of Hanoi, which is critical, its officers and soldiers need to uphold traditions and enhance combat readiness to be a solid base of defence, he said.

He told the Division to be creative in operational training, keep discipline and promote solidarity so as to be an example for other military units to follow.

On the occasion of the coming Lunar New Year, the PM sent the best wishes to officers and soldiers of Division 312, noting that the Party and State put complete trust in the division and its umbrella – the Army Corps 1.-VNA