President Ho Chi Minh mausoleum: insiders memories - Chapter 1

Introduction

The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command politically plays a crucial role in the Military, with a special mission: Ensuring the long-term preservation and absolute security of Uncle Ho’s body and his Mausoleum, organizing visits for guests not only locally but also internationally to the Mausoleum. 

With a profound tradition of the Vietnam People's Army, new generations of soldiers, workers, and officers are on the way to keep on the good track. No matter what happens, a spirit of absolute loyalty, integrity, and proactive creativity are definitely dedicated to People, Party and Uncle Ho, with a success to be excellent at what they are doing. 

The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command was honorably rewarded by Party and Government: The Ho Chi Minh Prize, First-Class Independence Order, State Science and Technology Prizes in preserving President Ho Chi Minh’s body; Institute 69  was given the award of Hero of Labors; Unit 195 was awarded the Hero of the People's Armed Forces. The Prize Hero of the People's Armed Forces in the innovation era was also given to The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command in 2004.  

On the 30th anniversary of the Soldiers Traditional Day of The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command (August 29, 1975 - August 29, 2005) and receiving the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces in the innovation era. The High Command launched a creative campaign, with the topic of The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. And the book "PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM: INSIDERS’ MEMORIES" was published thanks to those contributions from Russian experts, journalists, and musicians. 

With an inspirational spirit of spreading great values of the book, the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command committed  to release the entire 2 volumes of the book "PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM: INSIDERS’ MEMORIES", ensuring all the documents and events were original. The book was an authentic story, vividly capturing the stages of establishment and development, carrying out the political tasks of the unit under the direct leadership and guidance of the Party Central Committee, the Central Military Commission, and the Ministry of National Defense. With an emotional narrative, the author captured poignant moments, witnessing the pain of a whole country, bidding farewell to the beloved Uncle Ho, and turning  its pain to the efforts of preserving Uncle Ho’s body. The security guard and technical work during the intense wartime years, and confidential marches to bases in the mountains and forests had left remarkable imprints. Subsequently, the unprecedented tasks at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum were severely challenging. Some events was authentically recounted, allowing readers easy comprehension of the silent tasks, with a spirit of independence, initiative, and creativity, passing through all obstacles, striving to master the mission of long-term preservation of Uncle Ho's body. 

The book series reflects the sacred sentiments and deep gratitude of the Party members, workers, and soldiers of The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command, those directly in charge of preserving Uncle Ho's body and the Mausoleum, with wholehearted dedications to the Party and beloved Uncle Ho. The book serves as a gift, uplifting the spirit of the fellow countrymen, and the whole nation.

On the occasion of the book’s publication, the Party Standing Committee and The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command were sincerely appreciated to the generals, comrades, officers, and staff who devoted their efforts and time, recording the memories, memoirs, and commemorations of The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. Additionally, we also express our extended gratitude to the People's Army Publishing House for the assistance and favorable conditions, allowing this book to stay published. 

 

We look forward to hearing any contributions and feedback from readers, and new articles about The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Commands are highly welcomed.

We are pleased to introduce this book to our readers with appreciation. 

 

Sincerely! 

THE PARTY STANDING COMMITTEE AND

THE PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM HIGH COMMAND

APPRECIATION

(For the 2007 edition)

Major General DAO HUU NGHIA 

Head of Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Management Board, cum commander of

The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. 

On the morning of January 24, 2005, during the ceremony to receive the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces in the innovation era, representing the Party Committee and the High Command, I delivered a meticulously prepared and comprehensive report, highlighting the outstanding achievements of the unit in its development and self completion.The unit's remarkable and prestigious awards were achieved thanks to the special dedication and close leadership and guidance from the Party, the State, and the military, I addressed. Senior officials of the Government and the Ministry of National Defense often directly joined their hands in the journey. 

Following the commendation and guidance from Vice President Truong My Hoa, in response, I expressed my profound gratitude for the special attention from Party, State, and military leaders, including Comrade Do Muoi - former General Secretary of the Party Central Committee, former Deputy Prime Minister, and Head of the Construction Steering Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Officers, workers, and soldiers at all levels working at Uncle Ho's Mausoleum had a great chance, witnessing his strategic yet specific command of Comrade Do Muoi, related to the Mausoleum, Ba Dinh Square, and the long-term preservation mission, ensuring the absolute safety of Uncle Ho's body. Despite his health concerns and age, Comrade Do Muoi's appearance at this solemn ceremony was truly inspiring. At the end of the ceremony, Comrade Do Muoi slowly walked to his vehicle, inquiring specifically about Uncle Ho's body condition, the results of experimental research, and the potential for collaboration with Russian experts. He emphasized the need to improve the reception of the visitors, ensuring convenience and thoughtful care for the lives of officials, soldiers, and workers, allowing their reassured and wholehearted dedication to their assigned tasks.

In 2006, business as usual, during his visit to pay respects to Uncle Ho on the occasion of his  116th birthday, Comrade Do Muoi attentively observed Uncle Ho. Upon leaving, he remarked that Uncle Ho's body still looked well, he jokingly asked, "Is Uncle Ho's mustache still intact?" Comrade Do Muoi listened carefully and expressed satisfaction when I reported on the unit's ability, being independent in the current time. 

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The special attention and close leadership and guidance from Party, State, and Ministry of National Defense leaders regarding the unit's political tasks have been consistent and stop-free.

Comrade Nguyen Khanh, former Vice Chairman of the Council of Ministers, under the assignment of government, had a period leading activities at the Mausoleum. With a detail-oriented and logical working style, Comrade Nguyen Khanh spent a considerable amount of time inspecting the work, listening to the opinions of subordinates and specialists, and providing important guidance and directives.

His time supervising workload at the Mausoleum is unforgettable. It spanned from late 1990 to mid-1991, marked by accumulating difficulties and an urgent situation.

In the Soviet Union, the state leadership of the Communist Party gradually weakened, falling  into the hands of opposing forces. A severe economic and social crisis emerged, along with a unique political situation - a revolutionary counter situation. The risk of the Soviet Union being dissolved became imminent.

It was a difficult time for soldiers at the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.  The non-repayable sponsors from the Soviet Union for the Mausoleum's activities, along with the regular expert regime, remained no longer in existence. The crucial and effective support from them was interrupted, the chance of complete loss was high. 

On July 10, 1991, Comrade Nguyen Khanh presided over a crucial meeting, gaining unanimous comprehension, evaluating the situations and strategy, prioritizing tasks, and implementing necessary short-term and long-term measures. During and after the meeting, participants were well informed of the special significance of the conclusions made by Vice Chairman of the Council of Ministers Nguyen Khanh. His conclusions demonstrated strong political resilience and a very high determination based on practical and scientific foundations for the long-term preservation and absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body. Accordingly, in the new circumstances, the long-term preservation and security guard of President Ho Chi Minh's body remained the duty on the shoulders of the Ministry of National Defense. However, it required mobilizing the specialized capabilities of scientists both within and outside the military. The focus on researching and clarifying issues was quite effective, but was not yet fully satisfied the needs of theory and practice. Additionally, it necessitated the need for extra investment from related ministries in building personnel and research facilities, urging the immediate establishment of a National Scientific Council to advise the government and guide this significant task. Proactive preparation was essential to unlock the potential of self undertaking the task while still maintaining traditional relationships and seeking assistance as long as possible.

In the subsequent years, through dynamic and innovative efforts, the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command has effectively interpreted its principles and directions into reality, overcoming challenges with resilience and maturing in the process. 

In late September 1992, during the first session of the XI National Assembly, the Prime Minister, deputy prime ministers, and the approved list of members of the new government were elected. Deputy Prime Minister Phan Van Khai was directly assigned by the government to supervise activities at the Mausoleum. In early October, Comrade Khai participated directly and presided over the first meeting of the Scientific Council for the preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body, a decision made just a few days earlier.

This scientific conference marked the beginning of a new and crucial phase, encouraging and leveraging internal resources,  and facilitating the chance of self-undertaking the long-term preservation of Uncle Ho's body.

The conference, held at the 19-5 Guest House on Lieu Giai Street, was simple yet dignified and well-organized. The whole number of attendees arrived early. Deputy Prime Minister Phan Van Khai also showed up early in advance, getting in the meeting room with his familiar style: agile, easy-approach, and hilarious. Everyone stood up to greet him, and Comrade Khai responded with a firm handshake and a friendly pat on the shoulders. 

At the opening hour, after the statement of reasons and the introduction of delegates, the establishment of the Scientific Council for the preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's remains was officially announced. The Council's task was to advise on issues and scientific solutions for the long-term preservation of Uncle Ho's body. The Council's composition included Major General Nguyen Hung Phuc, Professor, Ph.D., Deputy Director of the Military Medical Academy, as the Chairman; and members: Professor, Ph.D. Do Trung Phan (Ministry of Health); Professor, Ph.D. Hoang Thuy Nguyen (Ministry of Health); Professor, Ph.D. Pham Ngoc Dang (Ministry of Education and Training); Ph.D. Nguyen Hong Vu (Ministry of National Defense); Ph.D. Nguyen Quang Tan (Ministry of National Defense); Specialist Doctor Do Van Dai (Ministry of National Defense); and two secretaries: Ph.D. Vu Van Binh (Ministry of National Defense); Ph.D. Dao Huu Nghia (Ministry of National Defense). The decision to establish the Scientific Council also included provisions on responsibilities and authorities of the Head of the Management Board of the Mausoleum and related ministers, ensuring the Council's effective operation and collaboration. 

Comrade Phan Van Khai, on behalf of the government, delivered a speech assigning tasks and directing the activities of the Scientific Council. He briefly addressed the unfavorable international situation, emphasizing the significance and requirements of the mission. He affirmed the determination of the Party, State, and our people to preserve and ensure absolute safety of Uncle Ho’s body no matter what happened —a special task entrusted to the military with absolute trust: "Conquer every mission, overcome every challenge, defeat every adversary.” He praised the results achieved in taking the lead in certain technical and medical areas, considering them as the initial foundation for formulating programs, plans, content, and the next steps. The Scientific Council was established not only to meet the current challenging mission but also to determine a long-term strategy. The Deputy Prime Minister explicitly stated the Council's dual role of providing advice and endless support within its assigned expertise, especially supporting collaborators, providing research equipment, and training personnel. In terms of state management, he requested relevant ministries such as the Ministry of National Defense, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Science and Technology, and Environment, and the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology to coordinate and create conditions for the effective operation of the Council.

Right after receiving and complying the assigned tasks of the guidance from the Deputy Prime Minister, on behalf of the members of the Scientific Council, the Chairman expressed determination, and gratitude for the trust and attention, promising worthy contributions going forward. Also, during this first meeting, the Council spent time discussing the report from the Management Board of the Mausoleum on the self-reliance plan and the priority research areas, while working on regulations of the Council.

As time flew, the establishment of the Scientific Council for the preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body marked a significant milestone, showcasing the timely and effective care from our Party and State. This marks a major advantage and a crucial factor, signifying the beginning of a new phase, leveraging internal strength,  conquering challenges, and continuing to excellently fulfill the special political mission of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command in this new period.

From the early years of the renewal era, while focusing on leading and directing the organizational and personnel adjustments, improving the overall quality and discipline of the military. The Central Military Party Committee (now the Central Military Commission) and the Ministry of National Defense still continued to pay special and timely attention to the unit's tasks, exemplified by Resolution 50 (February 1988). This resolution focused on leadership in carrying out the mission of preserving the President Ho Chi Minh’s body in the new situation. In executing the resolution, Lieutenant General Tran Hanh, serving as Deputy Chief of the General Staff, played a crucial role by providing leadership and direct oversight to the unit.

Assigned by the Ministry, with a hands-on approach, Lieutenant General Tran Hanh spent considerable time inspecting the work, participating in Party committee meetings, scientific conferences, and quarterly, six-monthly, and annual reviews of the unit. When discussing tasks, he calmly listened to diverse opinions, filtered and carefully considered, then provided profound analysis, suggestions, or directives. In striving to fulfill the mission in the period before, during, and after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, when assessing the situation, discussing strategies and mechanisms for continued cooperation, plans, and priority tasks for upgrading Institute 69... General Tran Hanh made practical and specific contributions.

One event, closely associated with the guidance of General Tran Hanh – Deputy Chief of the General Staff, was at the beginning of 1992. When the medical expert group from the Soviet Union could not come to assist us in making a regular preservative solution for President Ho Chi Minh's remains, we not only took on the responsibility ourselves but also calculated to be able to receive and manage the special solution independently. General Tran Hanh spent a lot of time working with the leadership and command of the General Staff, discussing intentions, determination, and approaches, down to the specific organization and implementation. Besides the shared concerns of those directly involved, there was the careful consideration of an experienced elder brother. He advised everyone to be cautious when working with the Soviet representatives, emphasizing the need for exploration steps, alongside legal foundations, persuading through emotions, and, most importantly, being urgent but not hasty.

The organization and implementation of the transfer of the special solution from the Soviet Union to us matched our prediction. After the Soviet Union agreed to transfer, we received the solution in a full and thoughtful way, ensuring its absolute safety. This event marked the beginning of a new period – a period of comprehensive mastery of the mission to preserve the long-term and ensuring absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh’s body. 

This event marks the beginning of a new era – a period that accelerates the comprehensive mastery and steadfast fulfillment of the long-term mission to safeguard and absolutely ensure the safety of President Ho Chi Minh's remains.

It’s not common that the scheduled maintenance at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum this year was conducted earlier than usual, ensuring completion prior to the APEC-14 Summit. Ha Noi is bestowed with  beautiful decorations, with the Mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square adorned in the vibrant colors of red flags and flowers.

When inspecting the process of preparing for the Mausoleum reopening after the routine maintenance. Everything was flawlessly completed, making me feel worry free. All tasks were meticulously carried out, including medicine, technology, security, ceremonies, and reception, including propaganda to ensure hygiene and landscape. The quality and progress of the work was a commitment of excellence, comprehensive and solid capabilities of the service forces at the Mausoleum.

After the final inspection by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Sinh Hung, who has been directly assigned by the Prime Minister to supervise the work at the Mausoleum. 

Everything was ready for the next day, welcoming visitors to the Mausoleum,

Looking at the Mausoleum, its dignified yet inherently familiar stature, enhanced by the newly highlighted features, I felt a sense of complete trust: Uncle Ho is everlasting, he always keeps the eyes on the renewal, integration, and development of our country. 

ONE DAY AND FOREVER[I]

Major General TRAN KINH CHI

Command cum Political Commissar of

the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. 

On the first day of the Lunar New Year of the Rooster (1969), Uncle Ho embarked on the first journey of the year to the Air Defense - Air Force troops. Aware that these troops had to face the formidable and battle-hardened U.S. Air Force. Accompanying Uncle Ho on a visit, I could not hold back my concerns and a sense of heart touching pain. I realized the fact, Uncle Ho's health had seriously declined. Harmonizing in the joyful atmosphere of the soldiers, I could not stop my worry for his health, just wanting to inform that: “Dear comrades, Uncle Ho is not really healthy for now, but he unlocked his limit to immerse in the crowd's happiness.” However, It was not possible to inform that. Despite his deteriorated health, he always kept a friendly smile, exuded warmth and love when greeting the soldiers. The more bright and the more proud the Air Defense - Air Force troops expressed, the more happy he felt. Very little or zero participants could imagine that it was the last time being with Uncle Ho. A surge of different emotions overwhelmed me, as I could not hold back from tears and choking. 

After the trip to the Air Defense - Air Force, he visited and sent new year wishes to the people of Bat Bat district, Ha Tay. In the heroic village of Vat Lai, he took a rest on Vat Lai hill, gazing at Mountain Tan Vien, seemingly at peace before the lush landscape. It was here that Uncle Ho had planted banyan trees, whose shade still reminds future generations, with the need to keep the environment in safe hands. 

           During Uncle Ho's 1969 birthday celebration, a meeting with the participation of generals, commanders, and leaders from the Ministry of National Defense was organized at the Prime Minister Palace. During the meeting with Uncle Ho, comrades such as Le Duan, Truong Chinh, Vo Nguyen Giap, Van Tien Dung, Song Hao attended. Uncle Ho delivered his talk, with a reminder and encouragement, aiming at striving for the better. Comrade Vuong Thua Vu, on behalf of the generals and senior officers of the army, expressed sincere wishes for the good health of Uncle Ho, giving flowers to celebrate his birthday. 

           Uncle Ho reciprocated by giving back the gifts to the delegates, encouraging them to strive for the better, promising more flowers of victories to come.

           Following this meeting, the healthcare team of Uncle Ho extremely raised a concern, reporting to the Political Bureau that his heart was showing signs of myocardial ischemia. The Political Bureau decided to invite Chinese doctors to provide medical treatment for Uncle Ho. From August 1969 onwards, Uncle Ho's health continued to deteriorate. 

On August 12, 1969, despite a heavy storm, upon hearing that the diplomatic delegation in Paris had returned, Uncle Ho immediately visited them at Ho Tay guesthouse, listening to the reports and providing mental support for the diplomatic front strategy. Afterward, he went back to inspect the task of flood prevention in Ha Noi.

         Coming back from the trip, Uncle Ho caught a cold. He developed a persistent cough the next day. On August 23, 1969, doctors administered antibiotics and performed electrocardiograms, revealing signs of heart failure.

        On August 28, 1969, Uncle Ho's heart showed signs of arrhythmia and atrioventricular gland disorders. 

         In mid-August 1969, with Uncle Ho's health showing increasingly negative signs, the Central Military Commission made the decision to establish a Steering Committee for the preservation of Uncle Ho's body. The committee included comrades such as Lieutenant General Le Quang Dao, member of Central Party Committee, member of Central Military Commission, Deputy Chief of the General Political Department, and Head of the Committee; Lieutenant General Pham Ngoc Mau, Deputy Chief of the General Political Department; Colonel Phung The Tai, Deputy Chief of the General Staff; Colonel Vu Van Can, Deputy Chief of the General Logistics Directorate, Director of the Army Medical Department; Colonel Tran Kinh Chi, Director of the Military Security Directorate. 

         The Steering Committee appointed Comrade Phung The Tai as the Deputy Head and me as the standing member, responsible for coordinating the specific tasks of the Steering Committee. Based on mission requirements during different periods, the committee mobilized additional forces, coping with the increasingly complex situation.

        Monitoring Uncle Ho's health hour-to-hour, day-to-day, we knew that the most critical period was approaching. The Steering Committee urgently conducted inspections in all aspects of preparation, completing remaining tasks promptly, and suspending all leaves and academic activities for officers and soldiers involved in the mission. The Military Security Directorate and Battalion 144 organized a convoy of five vehicles, including two ambulances and three Gaz cars. Selected comrades, including Hoang Dinh Thinh, the driver from the General Logistics Directorate, and Nguyen Van Nhich, the driver from the General Staff Directorate, were assigned to drive the ambulances. Other vehicles were managed by drivers from the Military Security Directorate. Every night, the drivers worked tirelessly, enduring hardship and intensive training, always completing the duties, allowing continuous transportation in various situations and on different routes.

Some officers and soldiers from Battalion 144 and the Military Security Directorate were selected for training. They wore police uniforms or disguised themselves as ordinary people, patrolling the streets along the convoy route. They prepared for the worst, all problems (such as vehicle breakdowns, traffic jams, accidents, sabotage) were well anticipated, and solutions were always ready to solve. 

The Foreign Relations Department of the Ministry of National Defense was tasked with establishing accommodations, renovations, and equipping the best facilities. The needs of personnel, two cars, assigned drivers, and administrative staff, along with two officers from the Military Security Protection Department (Comrade Vu Quang Kha - interpreter, and Comrade Hoan - liaison officer) were also well fulfilled. A security platoon from Battalion 144 served as a side support for the medical experts from the Soviet Union. Comrade Vu Quang Kha was appointed to be in charge of general tasks. Several officers from the Combat Engineer Headquarters, Battalion 144, and some officers and soldiers from the Military Security Directorate (Tong Xuan Dai, Mac Ho, Nhu, Tan, etc.) were assigned specific roles to manage various tasks under the Steering Committee's direction. Comrade Nguyen Van Hanh, Head of the Military Security Directorate, was tasked with general management of units, directly serving at Building 75A and 75B.

At the end of August 1969, the Steering Committee rechecked all facilities, units, and preparations. We then reported to comrades Nguyen Luong Bang, Tran Quoc Hoan, Le Van Luong, and the Political Bureau: All preparations satisfied the needs of the highest quality. Every member, every unit, and every facility hoped for the best, but yet ready to prepare for the worst. 

During this time, seeing Uncle Ho's health deteriorate significantly, the Central Party Committee notified the Political Bureau of the Central Party Committee, requesting immediate assistance from the Soviet Union, asking their medical delegations for a timely arrival in Ha Noi, initiating tasks of preserving Uncle Ho’s body. 

On August 28, 1969, the Soviet medical delegation arrived in Hanoi. The delegation, led by Comrade X.X. Debop - Academician of the Soviet Academy of Sciences, Deputy Chairman of the Soviet Academy of Medical Sciences, and Director of the Institute of Scientific Preservation of Lenin's body. He was welcomed by senior officers and leaders of Party and State upon arrival, allowing his easy access to work. The delegation then inspected Buildings 75A and 75B and reviewed the preparations made by the Special Medical Team. After the inspection, the delegation concluded that conditions were sufficient enough, facilitating the initial process of preserving Uncle Ho’s body, allowing seamless organizing for the funeral ceremony. Our Steering Committee could take a deep breath afterwards. 

Meanwhile, at the medical room, doctors still keep an eye on Uncle Ho's health, taking good care of him everyday. Party officials visited regularly, informing updates on the country's situation. The more news of victories from the Southern battlefield, the more happiness Uncle Ho felt. 

On August 30, 1969, Comrade Pham Van Dong visited and reported on the preparations for the upcoming National Independence Day celebration on September 2. After hearing the report, Uncle Ho demanded "Do not forget to set off fireworks so that everyone's spirit could be elevated." However, who would be happy watching fireworks when Uncle’s health was seriously deteriorating? 

On August 31, 1969, upon hearing the news that the Air Defense Forces had shot down a US UAV(which was downed on August 30), Uncle Ho showed a sign of satisfaction. He requested the Presidential Office to immediately send congratulatory flowers and praise the Air Defense Forces. The 361st Air Defense Division soldiers could not imagine, these flowers were the last gifts given by our beloved leader. 

That day, thanks to the good news, Uncle Ho’s spirit was lifted up, he managed to finish a bowl of porridge, making everyone feel a sense of outstanding happiness. The attending doctors were surprised yet still remained worried, understanding that the improvement was just temporary. 

And then, the most unexpected scenario was yet to come.

On the morning of September 2, 1969, while the entire nation was celebrating National Independence Day. In a small and simple room, located close to Uncle Ho's stilt house, on a simple wooden bed covered with a plain mat, our beloved Ho Chi Minh was taking his last breaths. Surrounding him were Party officials from the Central Committee, Political Bureau, professors, doctors, and medical staff. Comrade Vu Ky, Uncle Ho's closest aide, sat by the bed, continuously fanning him with a palm leaf fan.

All efforts did not pay off, exactly at 9:47AM, Uncle Ho's heart stopped beating.

The palm leaf fan slipped from Comrade Vu Ky's hand, and he collapsed, sobbing uncontrollably. The doctors continued their efforts, performing massages and artificial respiration with a fragile hope that the great and loving heart of Uncle Ho would restart, saving him from death. But it was just a hope which could not come true. A moment later, while discussing with the emergency medical team, Comrade Pham Van Dong sadly gestured, "Please stop comrades, let Uncle Ho rest in peace." Everyone present at Uncle Ho's bedside could not hold back from tears.

Updates on Uncle Ho's health had been continuously communicated to Building 75A. At Building 75A, comrades Nguyen Luong Bang, Le Quang Dao, Phung The Tai, and I closely followed the situation at the Presidential Palace via telephone. Soviet experts and the special medical team were on standby.

The updates on Uncle Ho's health situation were consistently in touch with Building 75A. At Building 75A, comrades Nguyen Luong Bang, Le Quang Dao, Phung The Tai, and I closely monitored the situation at the Presidential Palace through the telephone. Soviet experts and the special medical team were specifically instructed to be on standby.

At 10 AM., in pain, I reluctantly hung up the phone and informed those present at Building 75A, "Uncle has passed away." Comrade Phung The Tai, in tears, gave orders to everyone: "Get into position."

Wiping away my tears and rushing to the command vehicle, we were ordered to drive to the Presidential Palace. Sitting in the vehicle, there were comrades Nguyen Gia Quyen, Nguyen Van Chau, Nguyen Trung Hat, the Special Medical Team, and Comrade Do Hai - the political officer of Battalion 144.

Upon reaching the entrance of the Presidential Palace, the convoy stopped. Only the ambulance with the license plate FH1468, driven by Comrade Nguyen Van Hop, was ordered to go through. The ambulance arrived in front of Uncle's stilt house, where Comrade Tran Quoc Hoan was waiting. He embraced me, saying with tears, "It happened! Comrades, stay calm and perform your duties well." When he saw me and the Special Medical Team, Comrade Pham Van Dong, also in tears, waved his hand and said, "Alright, make some space for the specialists to do their job."

Seeing Uncle lying peacefully on the bed, tears welled up in my eyes. But just after a while, I suddenly realized a need to be highly aware and lucid. As his bodyguard, it is not uncommon to guarantee him in safe hands, without difference from previous official trips. With this thought, I calmed myself down, and along with the Special Medical Team, entered. "Comrades, be cautious!" - I made the request while they were relocating Uncle Ho from the bed to the stretcher. I was always beside Uncle on the way from the house to the vehicle. At this moment, I paid no attention to anyone around me “Make some space for moving Uncle Ho" - Did I seem to have said like that. People spread to both sides, forming an honor guard. These were all members of the Political Bureau- his outstanding disciples.

When Uncle was safely settled in the vehicle, I quickly observed and made an order: "Let's go." The vehicle smoothly moved out of the Presidential Palace gate. At that moment, all vehicles were maintained at the right positions and the right distances. The convoy escorted Uncle through Phan Dinh Phung, Tran Nhat Duat, Tran Quang Khai, Le Thanh Tong streets , heading to 75A. On the command vehicle, I observed the peaceful streets of Hanoi. Life seemed lively as everyone was hustling for the National Day. No one could have imagined uncompensable loss and profound sorrow that our entire nation was facing. At street intersections, I glimpsed the sentinels on duty, standing at attention as the convoy passed. Looking into the eyes of these soldiers, I understood that they were bidding a farewell to our beloved Uncle. They knew the most significant farewell in the nation's history had come, yet they remained silent and vigilant. They were the guards protecting the journey of the Leader. They must not leave the right positions, and must not let tears fall.

When the vehicle stopped in front of 75A, everyone rushed to welcome. I only managed to get out of the vehicle and report to comrades Nguyen Luong Bang, Le Quang Dao, and Phung The Tai: "Comrades, Uncle Ho has arrived."

I had been accompanying Uncle Ho during numerous official trips, but never had there been such a sorrowful journey. Throughout the way from the Presidential Palace to 75A, I constantly clenched my teeth, recalling myself, "Don't cry! Don't shed tears." But now, after completing the examination report, when the Soviet and Special Medical Team experts began moving  Uncle to a special chamber, I could no longer hold it back.

In the special chamber, there were Soviet medical experts, comrades from the Special Medical Team, Comrade Phung The Tai, and I approached to monitor the process and report promptly to the leaders. At the same time, we also took on the task of caring for the Soviet and Vietnamese experts.

The general principles and requirements of long-term preservation of Uncle's body were:

• Preserve his original shape of Uncle's body, making no different from his alive appearance
• Ensure the long-term preservation of Uncle Ho's body.
• Ensure continuous stream of visitors easy access to the Mausoleum without an obstacle. 

To the best of our knowledge, only the Soviet Union had accomplished such a technique of scientific preservation worldwide.

Comrades from the Special Medical Team of Vietnam, who were excellent specialists, with prolonged training and education of body preservation for two years, were assigned this task. However, driven by a sense of high responsibility and love for Uncle Ho, Professors Iu.M. Lopukhin, Academician x.x. De-bop, and Professor I.N. Mi-khai-lop directly carried out the medical work to preserve Uncle's body., with the assistance of two physicians, Nguyen Gia Quyen and Le Dieu - members of the Special Medical Team of Vietnam. In the quiet room, the sound of everyone’s heartbeat seemed to make noise. The medical experts were also deeply touched. After all preparations were completed, everyone stood silently in front of Uncle for a few seconds before Comrade Iu.M. Lopukhin raised his head and ordered, "Let's start."

One unique aspect was that despite Uncle Ho's old age and frail health, his circulatory system was still generally clear, even in the capillary systems. This was a testament to his excellence of frequent exercise. Thanks to this advantage, allowing easy preservation, as every capillary needed meticulous care. It was a highly delicate task. The Soviet medical experts performed this task with great love, profound respect for our Leader, high scientific spirit, and exceptional talent.

Later on, whenever it looked like rain outdoors, I would feel a strange chill, shivering. Although my life had experienced numerous days of hardship, rare victories, and endured many pains, losses, never before had I lived through such a heavy, painful day. During the days when Uncle passed away, Hanoi seemed to be burdened under a gloomy, swollen sky. The news of the nation's profound grief was not allowed to spread, but it appeared that gradually everyone in Hanoi, even the plants and trees, could sense that overwhelming loss.

For me, September 2, 1969, was an unforgettable day etched in my memory. Also from that day onwards, I realized that the mission to protect Uncle Ho, especially safeguarding his spiritual legacy, remained a significant duty for us, and our future generations were about to embark on that journey. The security mission, therefore, does not confine itself to a specific space or time. He might have departed, but the guardians, the soldiers close to him, are always by his side, always ready to act to protect the sacred values he left for the nation, the Party, and humanity. This is a crucial realization that I deeply understood on that solemn day.

PRESERVING PRESIDENT HO CHI MINH'S BODY IN VIETNAM

Professor, Academician Iu.M. LOPUCKI

Rector of Moscow Medical University No. 2

Translator: Colonel LAI VAN HOA - Director of Institute 69

In the last days of August 1969, the director of the Institute for the Preservation of Lenin's Body, Dr. Dobrop called and informed me: The government has requested me to make an urgent flight to Ha Noi. I didn't inquire and understood there was no need to explain secret matters over the phone; the upcoming task (or what we commonly referred to as "the job") was evidently related to President Ho Chi Minh, although there had been no official announcement of his death.

At that time, I was the Rector of the 2nd Moscow Medical University. I had also signed all the orders summoning the new first-year students. My wife and children were healthy, and I was genuinely delighted to leave Moscow, escaping the annoyance of guests, failed students, and journalists; the early morning wake-up calls; and finally, the accumulated fatigue. The next day, a group of five people, including myself and scientists Dobrop, Yu. A. Korotkov, I. N. Mikhailov, and his trusted assistant, boarded the IL-62 plane. The plane followed its route to Tashkent. It was hot in Tashkent, and we rested in a large but noisy hotel with slow-spinning fans. After an hour (or a bit more), we boarded the plane, flew over snow-covered mountains seen through the windows, landed in Calcutta, and finally arrived at the airport in Hanoi.

Upon leaving the plane, we were engulfed in hot, humid air, difficult to breathe, like being in a hot steam bath. The Vietnamese quickly took us to a car, drove through a street, and then took us to a comfortable two-story white house, built during the French colonial period. There, after a simple dinner, we arranged to sleep in rooms with wide beds covered with thin fabric. Fans on the ceiling blew out hot air, seemingly denser. We lived in this house for a few days with regular security guards. Only in the evening, when the streets were empty, did the Vietnamese take us for a walk on the street, strolling around a small lake surrounded by a zoo.

           On the first day of September, we learned that President Ho Chi Minh's health was very poor, and we needed to be ready for "the job."

In the afternoon of September 2nd, we went to the special laboratory of the military medical institute. There, all equipment such as lab coats, equipment for the job, and necessary fixing solutions, transferred from Moscow. At that time, President Ho Chi Minh's body was already there.

I took charge of the technical part; Dr. Dobrop whispered to me, "Alright, let's start!" I gazed at the body of President Ho Chi Minh, a slightly thin, medium-sized body, well-developed muscles. The body was still warm (due to the hot weather in those days and the short time since His passing). The arms and legs had moderately developed muscles, the skin smooth with a honey-colored tone, and the abdominal muscles clearly visible. The small hands had long fingers and neatly shaped nails, forming an elegant oval. The face featured high cheekbones typical of Asians and intellectuals. Some dark pigmented spots on the skin, especially on the forehead, were caused by age-related pigmentation. The eyelids were slightly drooping, and the lips closed with an outer contour that seemed to be smiling, expressing eternal peace. The forehead was high and broad, the hair sparsely combed backward, the long beard slightly curled, interspersed with silver and dark strands. On the inner side of the lower leg bone, just below the knee, the needle marks were evident. Later, I learned that before His final breath, Chinese experts had inserted acupuncture needles into the points called "the points of life."

*

* *

It's been 30 years since the day I and my colleagues were assigned the task of preserving the body of President Ho Chi Minh, and I was invited back to Vietnam. I eagerly wanted to visit the beloved homeland of Ho Chi Minh, acquaint myself with the materials at the museum named Uncle Ho, which is located not far from the Mausoleum, and, most importantly, assess the results of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body.

Firstly, visiting the splendid museum, I met welcoming and friendly people. I couldn't meet the Private Secretary of President Ho Chi Minh as he was being treated in the hospital. The hospitable hosts did their best to allow me to explore more and rest in Vietnam.

However, what I desired to do during my Viet Nam trip was all achieved. I had the opportunity to visit various places: first, in the visiting room, and then in the observation and assessment laboratory of the state of the body. It was wonderful! After 30 years, the appearance of President Ho Chi Minh's body had remained unchanged: both the peaceful face and His beautiful hands. The volume and shape of the soft parts remained in his original shape.

As I had not had a chance to visit Vietnam those years. My colleagues at the Institute for the Preservation of Lenin's Body, such as Yu.A. Romatsov, Yu.I. Denikovsky Nekonchitsky, L.D. Gerepov, X.V. Tomashevich, and those who had passed away like Dr. Dobrop, I.N. Mikhailov, B.I. Khomutov always joined their hands together with Vietnamese experts, passing through all difficulties during the war, tropical climate challenges, and the prolonged construction of the Mausoleum... always ensuring temperature and humidity parameters, regularly producing medications, so President Ho Chi Minh's body was exceptionally well-preserved. No preserved body before, including V.I. Lenin, G.M. Dimitrov achieved such an ideal state.

Unfortunately, I did not meet Dr. Nguyen Gia Quyen and Dr. Le Ngoc Man, the Vietnamese who, along with us, participated in preserving President Ho Chi Minh's remains from the early days: Dr. Quyen passed away, and Dr. Man is seriously ill.

It is noteworthy that everything related to President Ho Chi Minh's body in Vietnam is indeed sacred. His teaching, "Nothing is more precious than independence, freedom," is inscribed in golden letters, solemnly displayed on the wall in the foyer of the Mausoleum.

When referring to our country (the Russian Federation), to the assistance of our scholars, our engineers, our military experts... in the journey of assisting Vietnam in terms of construction and defense, overcoming all challenges, Vietnamese always remember President Ho Chi Minh's reminder: "When you eat a fruit, think of the man who planted the tree."

THE INITIAL DAY OF PRESERVING UNCLE HO'S BODY AT "75A"

Colonel NGUYEN VAN CHAU

Former Deputy Director of Institute 69

The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. 

In the last days of August 1969, at the specialized medical base 75A, it was very busy and bustling. Continuous inspections were conducted by Party Central Office and military comrades. The specialized laboratory, despite being in the trial phase to check temperature and humidity parameters, was ready to open its doors to visitors.

Every day, the telephone with the number 455 rang incessantly, signaling something urgent. One time, when I hurriedly picked up the receiver upon hearing the ringing, a voice said, "Hello! I am Nguyen Luong Bang...". After hearing my response, he immediately hung up. I reported to Chief Quyen and was reminded:

Telephone number 455 is only used by me and Mr. Dieu to receive instructions and orders from higher authorities.

At 5:30PM. on August 24, which was a Saturday, we, the comrades, planned to go for a walk after dinner. As we stepped out of the Department, Chief Quyen ran over and ordered: "All comrades, officials, and staff from this moment onwards are not allowed to leave the Department - throwing no troops into battle, except for Ms. Quy and Ms. Hang." The order was all, with no explanation. Even Dr. Nguyen Gia Quyen and Dr. Le Dieu had to stay continuously in the working room of the Department.

Throughout that night, almost none of us could close our eyes. Occasionally looking towards the adjacent room, the two would move around, sometimes exchanging something very serious. Later, we learned that on the night of August 24, 1969, President Ho Chi Minh's health had deteriorated significantly. He had difficulty breathing, sometimes requiring oxygen assistance. As the end of August approached, we in the Special Medical Team became busier, with almost no rest, as we urgently prepared the material base and processed the laboratory environment. Particularly, monitoring the temperature and humidity parameters of the "central" rooms and vehicles.

Dr. Sai The was assigned to handle the environment of the FH1468 ambulance and the white Volga car using strong chemicals and ultraviolet rays. His eyes swelled due to the influence of ultraviolet rays and strong chemicals. Chief Quyen and Mr. Dieu had repeatedly asked him to take a break, but he insisted on continuing his work.

At 7:00 PM. on August 28, 1969, under the guidance of Dr. Le Dieu, I, along with Mr. Hat and Mr. Am, conducted an experiment to determine some technical details in the preservation soaking process. The night had fallen, but none of us felt sleepy; we continued to work diligently. We listened to Mr. Dieu explain the technique enthusiastically and responsibly.

On the morning of August 29, Party Secretary Tran Dinh Ly came to work with Dr. Nguyen Gia Quyen and Dr. Le Dieu. Just after 20 minutes, a specialized team was formed, including Dr. Tran Thuy, Dr. Nguyen Van Chau, nurse Nguyen Trung Hat, and medical assistant Pham Ngoc Am. Under the guidance of Dr. Le Dieu, we continued to successfully carry out the experimental soaking and prepared to welcome the health experts from the Institute for the Preservation of Lenin's Body for inspection.

At exactly 7:56PM, On September 1, 1969, the group Soviet health experts, including 5 members, led by Professor and Corresponding Member Dobrop, observed and examined the state of the experimental model, remarking: "The initial results of the preservation are good, in terms of appearance, posture, and color."

Around 10:00AM, on September 2, 1969, an emergency alert was issued. At that moment, we, the four comrades - Dieu, Chau, Hat, and Am, had just stepped out of the laboratory. We looked around, feeling a heavy atmosphere enveloping area 75A. The entrances and exits to area 75A were strictly guarded. Looking at everyone's faces, all seemed saddened. Under the command of Colonel Tran Kinh Chi, everyone quickly boarded the vehicles awaiting orders.

           The ambulance with the license plate FH1468, driven by Comrade Nguyen Van Hop, had Colonel Tran Kinh Chi in the command position. Lieutenant Nguyen Gia Quyen, Dr. Nguyen Van Chau, and medic Nguyen Trung Hat were on the floor of the ambulance, with 200kg of ice packs and a stretcher. Following orders from higher authorities, the convoy slowly moved, and about 15 minutes later, it stopped in front of the Presidential Palace gate. Only the vehicle with the license plate FH1468 passed through the gate, proceeding to the row of ancient trees before coming to a halt.

I, along with Dr. Quyen and Medic Hat, quickly stepped out of the ambulance, crossed the grass carpet, and walked swiftly to the front of the thatched-roof house where President Ho Chi Minh rested. 

Comrade Tran Quoc Hoan, a Political Bureau member and Minister of Public Security, greeted us and reminded us: "Comrades, stay calm, hold back your sorrow, perform your duties excellently, and no errors are allowed."

Despite Minister Tran Quoc Hoan's advice, when gently moving the stretcher to the side of the President's bed, my eyes blurred, and tears fell onto the stretcher. I quickly wiped away the tears with the edge of my white coat, regained composure, and continued the task. 

Party leaders, state officials, and all comrades serving the President stood quietly, tears streaming down, gathering around the President's bed with infinite sympathy, observing the President's last moments before his departure.

In the solemn moment, Prime Minister Pham Van Dong's voice, though sad, was steady: "Alright, everyone, make some space for the specialized comrades to carry out their task." The three of us stood in our designated positions, just as predetermined. Gently, we moved the President from the bed to the stretcher.

The President's entire body was soft, his eyes not sunken but deep, and his face serene in the traditional silk pajamas. We lifted President Ho Chi Minh onto the ambulance with license plate FH1468, and Colonel Tran Kinh Chi ordered the vehicle to start moving. At this moment, the three of us had the opportunity to gaze at the President. No one spoke a word, silently walking in a feeling of sorrow for President Ho Chi Minh, witnessing a great loss for the entire nation. A short distance from the Presidential Palace to Military Hospital 108, but sweat dripped from Hop's face and shoulders, indicating the level of tension he faced in fulfilling a significant responsibility.

At 12:45PM. on September 2, 1969, after the comprehensive examination and initial handling, the long-term preservation work for President Ho Chi Minh's body was carried out in the presence of members of the Steering Committee: Lieutenant General Le Quang Dao - Deputy Chairman of the General Political Department of the People's Army of Vietnam, Colonel Phung The Tai - Deputy Chief of Staff of the People's Army of Vietnam, Colonel Vu Van Can - Deputy Head of the General Logistics Department, and Colonel Tran Kinh Chi - Director of Military Security Directorate.

Under the guidance of Academician Dobrop and the renowned surgeon, Professor, Academician Iu.M. Lopukhin, Professor I.N. Mikhailov, the Soviet-Vietnamese health expert teams coordinated smoothly, working together in a careful, precise, and strictly compliant manner with the preservation process.

The time spent on the technical preservation work yielded crucial initial results, providing favorable conditions for the following days of work. On the fourth continuous day and night (from September 2 to September 5, 1969) with a high sense of responsibility, scientific labor, and seriousness from Soviet health experts and the Special Medical Team, President Ho Chi Minh's body was preserved according to the technological process of the Lenin Institute. The distinctive features of the President's appearance during his lifetime were preserved intact.

At 7:30PM. on September 5, 1969, President Ho Chi Minh's body was placed in Ba Dinh Square for the people and international friends to pay their respects, bidding farewell to him.

The events of the first days of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body, on September 2, 1969, are long gone, but it is a moment that will stay with me as a magnet. Every time I look at the photo of the Special Medical Team standing next to President Ho Chi Minh's body, a flood of fond memories from those days of preserving the President's body wells up within me. The nostalgia, love, and pride in the work help me overcome myself to live and dedicate.

UNCLE HO’S RESTING PLACES IN THE WAR TIME

Colonel BUI DANH CHIEU

Former officer of the Construction Department

Combat Engineer Headquarters

I remember vividly an autumn afternoon in 1968 at the evacuation area in Ha Tay. Mr. Ta Xuan Man, the Head of the Design Department of the Construction Division under the Combat Engineer Headquarters, informed me, "Return to Hanoi immediately for a new mission." Upon receiving such notice, I felt a mix of joy and concern. Joy because I was entrusted with a new mission, and concern about the new task, a new working environment, being far from colleagues and the unit—wondering if I could handle and successfully complete the assigned mission.

Our team consisted of four members at that time: Comrade Nguyen Trong Quyen in overall charge, and three of us—Mr. Pham Hoang Van, an electrical engineer; Mr. Nguyen Lam Sinh, a construction engineer; and myself, a civil engineer responsible for the design of the ventilation and air conditioning system.

Our first task was to go to Military Hospital 108 to discuss and work with the Special Medical Team led by Dr. Nguyen Gia Quyen. Our mission required us to transform the hospital's surgical area into a special laboratory with the code 75A. The main chamber had to meet the following conditions:

• Temperature: 16°C ± 0.2°C
• Humidity: 75% ± 5%
• No drafts allowed
• Absolute sterility must be maintained.
• Completion time should be as soon as possible, and absolute confidentiality must be maintained.

The first step was to search for equipment and materials available in Vietnam, followed by developing a design plan for each chamber and structure. To ensure a thorough understanding of the air conditioning system's technical specifications, we conducted continuous 24/24-hour experiments. I, along with colleagues Pham An Dong and Le Tran Dong, took turns monitoring. Afterward, we moved to Chamber 1 in the hospital's dissecting area to continue the experimental research.

The work was extremely challenging - silent yet demanding utmost patience. The dissection area was silent day and night, with the sounds of insects and rodents dominating even the noise of machines running. After numerous days and nights of research, Mr. Van and I finally discovered a way to adjust the electrical system to meet the cooling requirements of the machine.

To address condensation, we used insulating bakelite sheets on the ceiling, simultaneously ensuring sterile conditions. Looking back now, I resonate with the saying: "The harder the task, the wiser one becomes."

The most difficult part was ensuring the air supply during the period 37 years ago[II], when machines were scarce and rudimentary. Moreover, the country was in the midst of a war, facing numerous challenges. In the end, we found a solution by using the hot air from the WPH-105 machine mixed with the cold air from the UC-26 machine. The test results were successful.

Project 75B was a small project serving the National Funeral Ceremony at Ba Dinh Square. Despite its size, the technical challenges were immense. I had to be on standby regularly beside the machine for adjustments. Sometimes, the formaldehyde and chemicals leak, causing irritation to the eyes. To ensure the job, I spent many sleepless nights. At times when drowsiness overwhelmed me, I poured cold water on my head to stay alert and continue working. I have a small unforgettable memory during these days: at a meeting of the funeral committee to check preparations, I fell asleep after only hearing Deputy Chief of Staff Phung The Tai speak for 5 minutes. Those around me noticed but, knowing that we had been working continuously through the nights, they chose not to wake me up, allowing me a brief moment of rest. Chief Tai also understood and generously forgave.

Objective realities presented a new challenge that forced us to think and find solutions. At that time, Ba Dinh Square did not have air conditioning; there were only basic ventilation fans. The heat and humidity from the crowd visiting President Ho Chi Minh's remains, combined with the heat from the lights for filming and photography, affected the temperature of the glass casket, leading to condensation. After many days and nights of experiments and research, forgetting to eat and sleep, we found a solution: using the fan speed of desk fans, combined with cold air around the glass casket, to address the issue.

In response to the trust of the Party, the Government, the people, and the military, we worked day and night, racing against time, ensuring the best progress and quality. At the end of August 1969, a Soviet medical delegation and the steering committee for preserving President Ho Chi Minh's remains inspected Projects 75A and 75B and concluded that they met the conditions for preserving President Ho Chi Minh's remains during the initial stages of the funeral.

During the National Funeral Ceremony at Ba Dinh Square, our team and the leaders of the Military Command were always present, never leaving our positions for a minute. On the third day of the President's lying in state, Comrade Nguyen Luong Bang, Central Committee member and head of the Central Inspection Commission, asked us: "Can you ensure additional time for the people to pay their respects?" We confidently replied, "Technically, we can absolutely guarantee it, for as long as needed."

Next was the renovation of Project K9 (later renamed K84), a long-term preservation facility for President Ho Chi Minh's remains during the war. It consisted of two areas: an above-ground section and an underground section to protect against enemy bombings. The project had to be completed within three months under challenging construction conditions: no electricity grid, insufficient water supply for air conditioning equipment, strict adherence to secrecy rules prohibiting explosives and large construction machinery.

The design, electrical, water, air conditioning, and construction teams worked continuously day and night. We all understood the significance of this crucial and historically important task, so everyone made tremendous efforts, shared the same determination, love, and encouraged each other to successfully complete the mission. On December 15, 1969, Project K9 was completed, surpassing the prescribed time by 10 days and renamed K84. Early on the morning of December 24 that year, President Ho Chi Minh's remains were moved to K84 for long-term protection during the fierce war against the imperialist invaders.

In 1972, President Nixon ordered the resumption of bombing in the North. American bombs wreaked havoc in many places, including Hanoi and Hai Phong. Although K84 was located far from Hanoi, it fell within the flight path of American planes. In anticipation of fierce retaliation, the Central Party Committee and Central Military Committee decided to move President Ho Chi Minh's body to a safer location before July 15, 1972. We were once again tasked with building this facility. Alongside comrades Pham Hoang Van and Hoang Quang Ba, I was ordered to survey the design and construction on-site. We set a goal to complete the work within 20 days. The location was in a forested mountainous area, damp and humid, with countless mosquitoes. The road was difficult, there was no electricity or water, and food was extremely scarce. However, difficulties did not weaken our spirits and determination. With boundless love and gratitude to President Ho Chi Minh, guided by Lieutenant General Pham Ngoc Mau, the project was completed on time, ensuring quality. Just over a week after completing the project, the beloved President's body were brought here for safekeeping.

More than a third of a century has passed, but every time I recall those thoughts, emotions, sleepless nights, and the dedicated teamwork, I am deeply moved. These are unforgettable years, years of "overcoming all difficulties" to fulfill the glorious task entrusted by the Party and the people.

Our technical team collaborated with the medical team to jointly preserve President Ho Chi Minh's remains until being brought to the Mausoleum. We were deeply touched when we heard that the Scientific Council, consisting of Soviet and Vietnamese health experts, concluded after inspection that, despite moving across a tropical climate, President Ho Chi Minh's appearance remained intact as when he was alive, and conditions were sufficient for long-term preservation.

Rewriting these brief memories, I only want to convey that in the 20th century, during the harsh war years of our country, the engineers and soldiers of the engineering corps silently built secret facilities where President Ho Chi Minh rested during the war, contributing their small part to the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's beloved body.

The workplace of President Ho Chi Minh and the Central Committee at Da Chong (1960-1969)

Preservation Site for President Ho Chi Minh's Body (1969-1975)

The Party leaders, members of the National Assembly, government officials, and representatives from the Vietnam Fatherland Front honored President Ho Chi Minh during the Mausoleum's inauguration ceremony on August 29, 1975.

Fellow citizens and international guests visit the Mausoleum to pay respects to President Ho Chi Minh.

 

Military parade commemorating the 60th anniversary of the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (September 2, 1945 - September 2, 2005).

Facilitating the live television broadcast connecting the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh with the city named after Uncle Ho and Thai Nguyen province on the occasion of commemorating the 60th anniversary of National Resistance Day (December 19, 1946 - December 19, 2006).

TECHNICAL TEAM ON K9 PROJECT

Colonel NGUYEN TRUNG THANH

Former Vice Chairman of Technical Affairs

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

The design team and construction supervision of the K9 Project (Da Chong), where President Ho Chi Minh's body were preserved before the construction of the Mausoleum, consisted of 6 engineers from the Design Department of the Military Command - Combat Engineer Headquarters: Construction Engineer Nguyen Trong Quyen - Head of the direct management team; Engineer Nguyen Cao Dam in charge of construction; Engineer Bui Danh Chieu in charge of air conditioning and ventilation equipment; Engineer Hoang Quang Ba in charge of water supply; Electrical engineer Pham Hoang Van responsible for construction coordination, and myself, Nguyen Trung Thanh, in charge of the electrical and automation systems. During this period, the six of us lived and worked continuously on the construction site under extremely difficult conditions.

In the morning, we would grab a boiled cassava and head to the construction site, and for lunch and dinner, we had job's tears with dried fish, sharing the mess hall with the construction unit. During leisure time or in the afternoon, on Sundays, we would go fishing to improve our meals.

I was responsible for 4 tasks:

- Designing and supervising the construction of the backup power system. Although it was intended as a backup, during the war, the national power grid was almost unavailable, making this system the main power source.

- Monitoring and inspecting the installation of the 35kV high-voltage line and substation to supply the electricity grid for the project.

- Designing and supervising the construction of the central management room No. 7, controlling the air conditioning and water supply systems to maintain the required temperature and humidity for preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body.

- Designing and installing a special lighting system for visiting President Ho Chi Minh.

A series of technical issues needed to be solved, and my job was to select design solutions that were suited best to the schedule, construction expertise, and the supply of materials at the time. Often, while walking and thinking about solutions in my head, I would pick up a piece of cement paper to brainstorm rough ideas, and in the evenings, these graphs would be presented to the construction workers. In the morning, rolling up my pants, I walked for several kilometers through the jungle with the electrical workers from Ha Dong Electric Branch to supervise the construction of the high-voltage line leading to the project. On the way back at lunch time, I felt a sense of starvation, with low blood sugar, I had no way but to sit leaning against an electric pole to rest. If I had a piece of candy to suck, I could recover and keep on the walk immediately, but it was just impossible in the middle of the forest. Sweat soaked my clothes, and my limbs were covered in mud. I possibly fainted on the way back, but thanks to the youth's strength, taking a short break allowed me to keep going. Being back home, the meal was no longer warm, and I had no choice but to finish the meal quickly, solving the hunger. When the trained electricians came back to read the drawings for the automatic control room, I would tear off a piece of cement paper, split it into parts, and use it for interpretations. However, the prior instructions could not stop me from personally going to the construction site guiding the workers. Holding pliers, I would bend the crooked wires as a sample, and measure various diodes, ensuring errors free. As I used to be a labor worker, I understood my instruction was easy access for workers, and the construction process would go smoothly. While working with construction workers, Mr. Hanh - in charge of project material supply - said:

"I've been directly to the electrical equipment manufacturing plant, asking for materials needed, but they are not available. Please spend some time going with me to Van Giang to look for alternatives tomorrow."

Then I became a material supply officer along with Mr. Hanh, going to Van Giang, Ha Dong, and then to Thai Nguyen. Heading for a long business trip within a day to meet the construction deadline, I was even dozing off in the car for a while. I was not an exception among other comrades; both designing and directing construction, and running materials due to urgent schedule requirements give us much pressure on our shoulders. The diversity of electrical materials is indeed a challenge for me.

When designing the backup power supply, the technical requirements were extremely demanding, including military specifications that required a comprehensive knowledge from the technical personnel. This power source necessitated providing sufficient capacity for the whole project, ensuring the smooth operation of large-capacity air conditioning units. The electrical quality (voltage and frequency) must be ensured for the seamless operation of medical equipment. The power source must be highly productive, ensuring continuous consumption for an extended period in case there is a high chance of the U.S assault. Simultaneously, energy savings was taken into account to handle supply disruptions due to damaged bridges. Switching between power sources must be done within a minute, delays are not acceptable due to its unpredicted affect on temperature and humidity of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body.

Many days of exploration were taken throughout the construction site area, finally we found a place to build the power distribution stations. Going through various scattered records of the Military Equipment Department of the Combat Engineer Headquarters in Thai Nguyen, Lang Son, and Hoa Binh, distribution stations finally had a place. I was keen on reading lots of reference books. Work hard pays off, we got the solutions, satisfying the aforementioned requirements. In fact, the operation at K9 unfolded as the initial assumption predicted, and the power supply system performed admirably.

I chose the Soviet Union's 75kVA transportable diesel power distribution stations, which provided high flexibility, assured capacity, user-friendly operation, automatic speed and power control for steady voltage and frequency. The disadvantage of these stations was that they were difficult to start, especially in the winter mornings. I didn't choose gasoline engines for ease of starting because the High Command's depots didn't have large-capacity gasoline engines at the time. Furthermore, diesel fuel was more cost effective in the long run, and diesel engine spare parts could be found everywhere. Each generator was located in its own underground cavern deep within the hill. All smoke pipes are stretched outside the bunkers and processed using the Hoang Cam Kitchen method, guaranteeing that smoke disperses only beneath the tree canopy. The three generating chambers are dispersed throughout the area in a staggered configuration. Aside from the supporting technical solutions, there is a well-structured operating procedure and intensive operator training. The generator sets are in standby mode, and they must be started for 10 to 20 minutes in advance every morning, ensuring the readiness for use. A battery charging station, a secondary water and acid replenishing space were also constructed.

A small-capacity power generation station, 15kVA was built, with the requirement for machine and fuel efficiency in mind during the winter, in case environment temperatures are low and air conditioning usage is modest, and power demand is low during the nighttime return.

The obligation to ensure non-stop power (no longer than one-minute interruption) was the most difficult and aggravating component for me. An electrical engineer had no trouble designing an automatic backup power circuit. The issue here was that the backup power source was diesel generators. It was challenging to ensure that the generators started fast and stabilized power and voltage within a minute to sustain the load. If the first generator fails to start, the system will automatically switch to the backup generator. Several variables must be considered to ensure immediate generator starts: a strong battery, a hot engine, well-functioning fuel injectors, and preheated diesel. It required a complete solution that combined technical and operational experience. After assembling and trying it several times, it still failed at the timer and switching circuit stages. Unlike the present availability, acquiring a processor with an automatic switching timer is not a problem, back in the days, I had to assemble it using discrete components and experiment extensively. Finally, a circuit that satisfied the specifications was discovered.

The design and installation of the control panel in Control Room 7 were both complicated. The room of keeping President Ho Chi Minh's body was surrounded by 9 alternating air conditioning units, all of Japanese manufacture, with control panels positioned immediately in front of each unit. Operators were not permitted to enter the room with the preserved body to manage the machines, and it was not practicable to shift all control panels to Room 7 due to the extensive wiring, which would jeopardize the system's reliability. The operators seated in the central chamber had to be able to monitor the temperature and humidity in the room containing the preserved body, identify whether to boost or decrease air conditioning, determine which machine is in use, as well as the outdoor temperature and humidity. Operators also kept track of other data such as water quantity, cooling water temperature, and so on. The Soviet medical professionals stood there, shocked yet confident, watching the flashing red and green lights and buzzing sound of the operational self-recording clock. Comprehending creating such a control panel remained challenging for us nowadays still. All of the indicator lights, including the red and green lights, had painted light bulbs. After a period, the paint would wear off and they would need to be repainted or replaced. I also attempted to reduce the supply voltage in order to extend the life of the painted light bulbs. Things were successfully done thanks to the great dedication of Mr. Chieu, Mr. Ba, and the ingenuity of the soldiers of Engineer Brigade 259 of the Engineering Corps; the assistance of the Hanoi medical equipment factory and Workshop X49 of the Combat Engineer Headquarters. What made me super touched was their willingness to disassemble each push button and switch from machine tools, all efforts made for long term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body.

The building site has turned to the next chapter, a chapter of urgency, ensuring timely welcome for President Ho Chi Minh's arrival. Workers necessitated the need of working for three continuous shifts, as the completion was far from our expectation. We accompanied side by side, constantly addressing any concerns that arose, very little or zero break-time, resting only when we were extremely exhausted. Everyone appeared thin and sunburned, and even Comrade Cao Dam, lovingly called as "Dam Sua" (the man of milk) due to his super white skin, was now severely tanned. Despite those extreme conditions, everyone was quite healthy.

Our daily routine remained unchanged on numerous projects, yet no one received praise or awards. Even during meetings, it was considered a must-do. Everyone was constantly educated about the importance of responsibility and the great honor of representing the Vietnam People's Army in national security projects. Everyone here was not strange with Deputy Commander Tran Ba Dang's working style. He had been to numerous classified projects and was committed to his profession. The Deputy Commander joked that he was the "king" of construction, air conditioning, power, and water.

On a Sunday morning when the construction site was off, Deputy Commander Tran Ba Dang took great care of us by driving us back to Hanoi for our family reunions. Everyone was truly happy due to its prolonged time away from families. Many carried dried rations and night-shift meal portions were prepared as gifts for their family. As we drove into Son Tay, a UAZ suv from Hanoi stopped over, and the Deputy Commander and Mr. Quyen came out, followed by a military general with a bald forehead. It was my first time meeting General Phung The Tai. Soon after, our car carrying Tai – the Unit officer, Deputy Commander, and Mr. Quyen returned to the construction site without an explanation. We were surprisingly sad, but as soldiers, no emotional expression and complaints are accepted.

Working hard eventually paid off. The night had come to welcome President Ho Chi Minh's arrival. All of the lights around the building site were illuminated in the early evening. The high-pressure lights on both sides were lighted from the drainage ditch at the foot of the hill leading to the peak, generating a bright white streak that circled around the base of the hill and up to the summit, looking quite mystical. All of us were on set, ensuring proper operation of the equipment to welcome President Ho Chi Minh.

Deputy Commander Tran Ba Dang gave me the task of testing several power outage scenarios. He stood next to comrade Le Quang Dao, holding a stopwatch and monitoring the process. I pressed the button to disconnect from the national power system, and the first generator fired up in a matter of seconds. After a few seconds of running, presuming a fault, the second generator started. The national power grid was then restored, and the capacitor-bank switched automatically. "Good job," Deputy Commander said, " the power outage is even unknown for the participants" The convoy carrying President Ho Chi Minh's body arrived at the building site as dawn approached.

I traveled to Hanoi to observe how the lighting system could be utilized for the visit at Ba Dinh Square before designing the lighting system for the visitation. Then I went to Film Studio I at Thuy Khue to see how they lit actors for filming and bought their lights and accessories. The height and scale of Uncle's glass coffin at K9 were impediments to using the Ba Dinh Square lighting system. I created tiny light fixture racks that were mounted on the walls and allowed for far projection. To meet medical regulations, all lights and racks were chrome-plated. Everything was done, but there was no way to test the lighting on a model to determine the angle and color. I was concerned because the adjustment time on President Ho Chi Minh's body was limited to 15 minutes. Recognizing my anxiety, Deputy Commander Tran Ba Dang reported to Unit officer Tai, who was directly in charge of receiving the first-ever visit of Political Bureau members on the anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh's birthday (May 19). Surprisingly, he allowed me to test directly on him. Seeing my hesitation, he asked:

• Why do you still hesitate?
• Certainly, without a glass cover, shining directly on the Unit officer will be extremely hot, and the lights have a high output of up to 1,000W - I honestly admitted.
• Does it get hot as beaming on Nguyen Duc Thuan's head? - He questioned with a smile.
• Sir! Probably not because the lights are placed at a distance of 2m or more! - I explained.
• Let's get ready for tomorrow's trials, and install it as brightly as you can. The day after tomorrow, visitors will come to pay their respects to Uncle Ho. You have no choice but make sure the same quality at the funeral, you will be rewarded mate! - He rubbed my shoulder.

The next day, he lay on the bed with both hands on his abdomen, imitating Uncle Ho's position. When I turned on the lights, bright beams shone on his face. I rapidly altered the focus length and angle. Sweat ran down his brow in a matter of minutes. I was in a rush. It was June, and there was no air conditioning when I was testing. Despite this, he was calm and steady. I instantly adjusted once more. People standing nearby saw that it fit the requirements. I switched off the lights. He stood up. Someone immediately offered him a damp towel, and others used a fan to cool him down.

• How does it look? - He asked everyone.
• It looks nice, sir!

I was about to clean up, suddenly he laid back on the board and demanded, "Let’s try again to make sure it's error-free, Thanh, remember where to shine for Uncle Ho tomorrow."

Everyone agreed when I turned on the lights and adjusted the focal length for a more concentrated light on the face.

As he left the area, his shirt on the back was saturated and lots of sweat could be seen on his brow. I was a bit worried, empathetic, and adored him all at the same time.

I was summoned to Uncle Ho's body room that night. All of the leaders and some Soviet medical professionals attended. I had only 15 minutes to fine-tune the lighting on Uncle Ho's physique for the approval council.

After a while of observing Uncle Ho from behind the glass coffin, I eventually adjusted. I felt like a grandchild returning to see his papa after a long absence. I remembered previous encounters with Uncle Ho. Before we took over the capital at Vai Cay - Thai Nguyen, our construction team built temporary residences for the Central Committee. In the afternoon, I sat and watched Uncle Ho play volleyball with his police guards. He was slimmer and darker back then. The second time was when I introduced the minefield display at the army innovation show on Ly Nam Street. Uncle Ho paid close attention to my talk, clothed in a brown silk suit called Ba Ba and tire sandals. When we went out to the yard, I pushed the handcart to demonstrate the idea of spreading mines with a simple cart. He was chuckling as he continued, "People are about to set the footprint on the moon, and you guys are still using the handcart." Everyone burst out laughing.

 This time, witnessing Uncle Ho reclining comfortably as if asleep, with a high and wide forehead and a white beard. I told myself to try the best on adjusting the lighting, making Uncle Ho appear as he was peacefully sleeping. Uncle Ho is a figure of history, a man of easy approach and simplicity.

MEMORIES OF PEOPLE WHO SERVED UNCLE HO AT DA CHONG

 

Colonel LE HONG DUONG

Former Deputy Head of Political Department

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

At Da Chong, I attended a gathering of historical witnesses who had served Uncle Ho and the Central Committee. Despite the hot sun in May, the weather was nice, facilitating emotional expression to be told. Nearly half a century has passed, some are still here, some are gone, but profound memories and unbounded affection for Uncle Ho return in the consciousness of each historical witness. Please allow me to capture some memories from the seniors, those who served honorably at Da Chong.

Following warm handshakes were heartfelt stories and inquiry about each other's health and families. People moved carefully towards the house where Uncle Ho had lived and worked to give incense in his remembrance. Countless recollections flooded everyone's minds. Artifacts once closely linked with Uncle Ho, as well as the locations where he and his Central Committee colleagues worked, relaxed, welcomed guests, and conducted key meetings deciding the nation's major issues throughout the war time. Some elderly leafed through golden journals filled with guests' recollections, and many left meaningful remarks. Among them was a sentiment shared by General Vo Nguyen Giap, former Commander-in-Chief, Minister of National Defense, an outstanding disciple of President Ho Chi Minh, who spent years living and working alongside Uncle Ho: "On January 01, 1998, while visiting the K9 historical site, also known as the Da Chong Monument area, and looking at a statue with an image of Uncle Ho, and sitting at the table where Uncle worked with comrades in the Political Bureau, I missed him very much, feeling as if I had just worked with him here." Everyone fell silent for a moment after reading General Giap's tribute, sharing the same emotion: though Uncle Ho has passed away, his home, the table, the working chair, and the bed seem to retain his warmth. How time flew? It had been two centuries since the old days, working and learning with Uncle Ho.

Nguyen Van Ru, 86 years old, former Deputy Chief of the Provincial Administrative Office in Son Tay from 1957 to 1959, reminisced slowly: "In February 1958, I, along with Mr. Phuong - Chairman of the Provincial Administrative Committee, had the honor of welcoming Uncle Ho to visit the old coffee plantation area (later known as construction site 5)." Uncle Ho and the working delegation had lunch here back in the day. In the afternoon, Uncle Ho had a meeting with almost 500 provincial authorities in Son Tay town. Later, Uncle Ho and the Central Committee decided to make this location the base, and I was honored to be a member of the Construction Steering Committee and Party Committee." Mr. Ru continued, "Honestly, I was happy and worried at the same time. Happy because the superior trusted me with a significant task, a task related to our homeland with Uncle Ho and Central Committee comrades living and working here. But also worried because the task was much pressured, needing urgency while assuring quality and development as specified. As a result, I had to closely monitor the construction. When I joined Uncle Ho for inspection on multiple occasions, I typically used a mobile motorbike, sometimes in Son Tay, sometimes on the building site 5.

The story of Mr. Ru reminded me Mr. Vu Ky, Uncle Ho's personal secretary, who recounted: "A day in May 1957, Uncle Ho had a rice ball meal with the comrades next to the 'three mountain' Da Chong, where the land was flat and there was a giant phoenix tree, when Uncle Ho visited the soldiers and officers of the Division 308 conducting exercises in the upper reaches of the Da River." Uncle Ho then took a little nap just under the tree. According to Mr. Ky, it was not Uncle Ho’s first time to Da Chong, on a sunny day in May 1957, Uncle Ho stood at the 'three mountain' spot, looking at the Da River in front, appreciating the scenic surroundings, the winding river, the beautiful landscape, close to the people, and away from the national highway. With the strategic vision, Uncle Ho considered establishing a base, Uncle Ho proposed constructing a base from which the Party's Central Committee could continue to direct revolutionary efforts and, if necessary, allow the Staff management in combat with the ferocious enemy.

According to Uncle Ho's plan, the Da Chong Monument area was developed, including the Central Committee's workplace, resting area, and a zone for service forces. Right after that, the General Logistics Directorate was assigned the task of building several level-four houses. By May 1959, anticipating the threat of a destructive air war by the American imperialist forces in the North, the Central Committee urgently directed the army and local forces to expedite the construction of the base. Once completed, the base was codenamed K9.

Mr. Cu Van Chuoc, former Head of Clerical Department of the President Office and former Director of the Ho Chi Minh Museum, who had the honor of serving Uncle Ho for many years, slowly revealed: "During the construction of this house, Uncle Ho inspected it three times." Uncle Ho personally indicated the direction of the main home using bamboo stakes to simulate stilt buildings. Trees in the vicinity were not allowed to be felled randomly in order to maintain confidentiality. Many long-standing trees remain close to the stilt house (two-story house) today: rice trees, cotton trees, longan trees, coffee trees, and so on. Many trees, such as orchid trees and cinnamon trees, were later planted here for shade, fragrance and bettering the environment.  The milk tree from the South was planted in Uncle's garden and propagated to be planted at construction site 5 as well as other resting areas such as the West Lake Inn and the Presidential Palace nursery."

Mr. Le Van Nam, a soldier of Team 1, Company 1, Engineer Brigade 600, who served in the Da Chong Monument area since 1960, vividly recalled: "In my military life, it was my great privilege to meet Uncle Ho many times. Meeting him at the first sight gave me vivid memories. It was on the morning of January 28, 1960 (Lunar New Year's Eve of the Year of the Rat), Uncle Ho visited Da Chong (construction site 5) to deliver new year wishes to the officials, soldiers, and workers. Well-informed that some Southern workers were homesick, Uncle Ho reminded them: “I know you all miss your Southern home, it necessitated the demand of working hard on the two goals of building the North toward socialism, liberating the South, and reuniting our nation. During that time, Uncle Ho visited to the two families of Mr. To and Mr. Cam, who lived at the foot of the hill. He was dressed in brown, wearing a wool hat, and walked around in black rubber sandals. Everyone in the room was surprised, delighted, and perplexed as Uncle Ho approached. Mr. To clutched his hands and cried, "Dear Uncle, dear Uncle." Uncle Ho grinned, waved his hand, and gently murmured, "Don't do that." On this New Year's Eve, I wish you everybody good health, a wonderful Tet, and development.' Uncle Ho subsequently wished everyone a Happy Tet and handed gifts. Everyone applauded and thanked Uncle Ho. Uncle Ho bid goodbyes and headed up to the stilt house.”

There are many more heartwarming stories, especially around holidays and birthday celebrations for Uncle Ho. Uncle Ho did not desire big parties on these occasions and actively planned distant work travels. Da Chong was his most visited location.

Each person offered their own narrative, their own recollection of Uncle Ho, which seemed to go on endlessly. The elders stood solemnly, staring at the house, all of its contents still intact. With a row of long tables, seats, and ceiling fans, this was the location for welcoming guests and holding Political Bureau meetings. The door system was designed to be flexible on rails, allowing for greater openness. When there were a big number of people attending meetings or during breaks, the door platform was used as seating. Officers, soldiers, and workers stationed here would light incense in commemoration of Uncle Ho on Lunar New Year, Uncle Ho's death anniversary. The unit was destroyed on April 17, 1995 (March 18, 1995, Year of the Pig), the unit established Uncle Ho's altar. Initially, the altar had a portrait, and by May 08, 1997 (April 02, 1997, Year of the Buffalo), a bronze statue took the place of the portrait. Minh Dinh, an artist at the Museum of Military History (now the Vietnam Military History Museum), painted this masterpiece representing Uncle Ho seated on a bamboo chair, reading the Nhan Dan newspaper. Uncle Ho appeared to be greeting visitors with a sweet and compassionate expression. Everyone took a moment to admire Uncle Ho's statue before ascending the stairs to the second floor of the house. Mr. Cu Van Chuoc and Mr. Nguyen Van Mui, Uncle Ho's drivers, recalled vividly that in 1961, Uncle Ho welcomed Mrs. Dang Dinh Sieu (the late Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai's wife), and in 1962, Uncle Ho welcomed Soviet astronaut Gherman Titov.

The events of President Ho Chi Minh welcoming two international guests at K9 hold significant importance. It was a kindness to the people of the Soviet Union and Chinese siblings. Today, the jade orchids and golden orchids planted by President Ho and his distinguished visitors are evergreen and blooming with fragrant blossoms, representing the Vietnamese people's camaraderie and faithful comradeship.

Adjacent to the living rooms is a small meeting room. This room witnessed important discussions of President Ho with Party and State leaders concerning crucial matters related to the ways of liberating the South and reunification of the nation

The President's resting room is simply furnished with only the essentials. In the words of Mr. Cu Van Chuoc, "This is the grass mattress gifted by the people of Son La to President Ho, the bedside lamp, and the wool carpet given as a gift when President Ho visited China." "Good things and decent belongings should be reserved for esteemed guests," President Ho would often say. Vietnam has a long history of kindness and goodwill." A vase of lilies, President Ho's favorite flower, decorated the desk whenever he worked or rested in this area.

A round pond with a natural rockery in the center sits in front of the house. An underground bunker capable of seating 3-4 people could be found to the right at the start of the stairway. The front of the house has a paved brick path with scattered stones that leads down 81 steps to the Da River. It is known as "President Ho's Health Training Path," and now, everyone can view the blossoming lotus flowers planted during the base's construction to conjure memories of the home garden in Kim Lien, Nam Dan.

Leaving the traditional stilt house, everyone returned to the greenhouse, a haven of safety for President Ho's body during the six-year war. Standing in front of the sign "This place preserved President Ho Chi Minh's body from 1969 to 1975," which was erected on May 16, 2001 by General Secretary Nong Duc Manh, everyone was informed touching stories about the resilience, endurance, and technological innovations of Vietnamese engineers, doctors, officials, workers, and technicians who, alongside Soviet experts, safeguarded and protected President Ho's body during the harsh years of war.

The visitors approach the living area at the end of the tour. Despite having previously expressed emotional sentiments, the historical witnesses are now filled with wonderful memories. Each individual, who was later assigned different roles, always followed in the footsteps of the Convoy 69 and the current the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. Despite difficulties, shortage, and the critical moment following the Soviet Union's demise, the unit progressively climbed to become the master of its task to preserve and protect President Ho's body. As time flew, yet the Da Chong monument remains intact and well-preserved, and the surrounding lands are painstakingly maintained.

My deepest appreciation and unending respect for these veterans, who once had the honor of serving in this special task force and are now in their old age, eloquently pass down their sacred memories of beloved President Ho Chi Minh to the younger generations.

SOVIET UNION TRIP TO DESIGN THE MAUSOLEUM

Colonel TRAN QUOC DAN

Former Head of the Basic Construction Management Committee

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

In 1971, I was part of the Vietnamese delegation that collaborated with Soviet experts on the design of President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. We would have started construction on the Mausoleum in 1972 if the US had not worsened the war by conducting air raids on the North. However, progress was suspended due to the B-52 bombardment of Hanoi and other cities in December 1972. Under devastating defeats, the US was obliged to sign the Paris Agreement on Vietnam in January 1973, withdrawing all troops and halting all combat operations against the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

We discussed the possibility of resuming construction in September 1973 with the Soviet Union in March 1973. They replied, "Due to the delays, we cannot provide a complete technical design on time." After that, several talented technical officers from different sectors were recommended heading to the Soviet Union to join their hands in technical design, the recommendation was accepted.

The Vietnamese delegation consisted of 12 comrades in August 1973, including four architects from the Ministry of Construction: Nguyen Dinh Phung, Architect, Nguyen Tan Van, Architect, Ngo Thanh Can, and Lu, Construction Engineers. There were eight comrades from the Combat Engineer Headquarters: Nguyen Trung Thanh and Nguyen Duc Nghi - Electrical Engineers, Hoang Quang Ba - Water Engineer, Bui Danh Chieu - HVAC Engineer, Dang Thanh Trung - Mechanical Engineer, Pham Van Quang, Nguyen Van Tay - Interpreters, and myself - Tran Quoc Dan - Defense Construction Engineer. I was given a red passport in order to carry confidential information while working with the specialists.

With a detail-oriented preparation, we arrived in Moscow and immediately initiated the design with Soviet professionals. Back at home, comrades like Do Muoi, Bui Quang Tao, and Phung The Tai were constantly inquiring about our whereabouts. We stated that we would have the design by September 1973. Working from the ground up, designing and constructing at the same time, was the design method. I was required to visit the Vietnamese Embassy in the Soviet Union on a weekly basis to report on design development and collaborate with experts, with comrade Vo Thuc Dong - the Ambassador - supervising this.

During our time in Moscow, we worked seven hours a day with Soviet Institute of Design officers and continuously attended team meetings to exchange experience and future plans. There were disagreements in point of view from time to time, and we had to find ways to harmonize the relationship, towards our common goal.

We were all aware of the high stakes at the moment, therefore everyone worked tirelessly, day and night, to meet the design deadline. Even though we had a sufficient supply of milk and bread, everyone lost weight in just two months.

Before departure, each of us was equipped with two suits, two pairs of pajamas, two pairs of shoes, a coat, and a hat. Our stockings were damaged after around three months in Moscow owing to frequent travel, and our Vietnamese-made shoes were not appropriate for the winter weather in Russia, so we had to patch and fix them ourselves. I went to the embassy one day to report to comrade Vo Thuc Dong. He inquired after hearing the report, "How is your life here, any difficulties?" I replied, "We are much better off than our colleagues back home in terms of materialism. It had recently snowed heavily, and all of our shoes were destroyed. Snow crept into our shoes, and everyone received frostbite on their feet on their way home from work." Comrade Dong immediately called the head of the embassy's Finance Department and said, "Give this comrade 450 rubles to buy 9 pairs of shoes and 9 pairs of socks." When I returned to the team, everyone felt super touched. Such a simple dedication meant a lot to us. The following Sunday, we went shopping together for new shoes.

In September 1973, we sent the foundation design documents to Vietnam through the embassy. Comrade Vo Thuc Dong announced that "Vietnam team has received the foundation design at home, and your efforts have garnered great praise from comrade Do Muoi."  We were filled up with new sources of energy and motivation after hearing this news. The fundamental technical designs would be completed by around October 1974, according to the agreed-upon timeline between us and the Soviets. After receiving a direction from the Construction Steering Committee in early December 1973, upon receiving a directive from the Construction Steering Committee, I and comrade Ngo Thanh Can had to arrange to bring back the designs we had completed to address the discrepancy between the architectural and protective structures. Even though these were integral parts of the project, their designs and confidentiality level were different.

The arrangements for our return travel were handled by comrade Vo Thuc Dong, the chief of the embassy's Commercial Section at the time, who was in charge of everything. On the evening of December 08, 1973, I, comrade Can, and some embassy security personnel boarded a train to return to Vietnam in a separate compartment. The compartment had four beds, but one was designated for documents only. There were seven parts totaling around 200 pounds, and I was given primary duty. We arrived in Beijing five days later. When we arrived at the station, the embassy's driver came to pick us up, transporting all of our documents and stuff to the embassy rather than staying in a hotel.

We returned to Hanoi station on the evening of December 18, 1973, and the 75808 construction site command sent a car to pick us up. The construction site command, along with comrades My, Nhi, Dang, Soan, and many more, greeted and embraced us warmly, as if we were close relatives returning from afar.

The documents were immediately taken to the secure storage room. Looking at the numerous documents, everyone was reassured that the fundamental issue of the construction design had been resolved. The remaining part of the technical design, especially the equipment design for electricity, water, air conditioning, information, etc., was continued by comrades Nguyen Tan Van, Lu (Ministry of Architecture), Nguyen Trung Thanh, Nguyen Duc Nghi, Bui Danh Chieu, Hoang Quang Ba, Nguyen Van Tay (Combat Engineer Headquarters), and myself until May 01, 1974, before returning to Vietnam. By then, the basic technical design had been successfully completed. The detailed designs for implementation were to be solved directly on-site by Vietnamese technical officers and Soviet experts. Due to the early involvement of Vietnamese technical officers in the design, the design documents met the practical requirements of Vietnam.

On December 19, 1973, I delivered the documents to the 75808 construction site, which included comrades Nguyen Duc, Head of Technical Department, Nguyen Ngoc Dinh, Security Officer, and Ngo Thanh Can, Witness. In the confirmation document, it is noted that: "The documents are intact with lead seals, and all documents are in the same package, with quantities as listed in report number 236/TM73 of the Vietnam Commercial Office in the Soviet Union."

When the documents were turned over after ten days and nights of worry and hard work, I was so relieved that tears welled up since we accomplished an essential task. "Take a two-day break and come back early to complete the work," Comrade Dang advised.

I composed this reminiscence to help people learn more about a specific aspect of the historical construction of President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Today, in the historical district of Ba Dinh, a century-old cultural work stands tall, emphasizing Vietnam's deep connection with the Soviet Union. It is a source of national pride, guiding the Vietnamese people and worldwide friends to constantly look to it for truth and noble thoughts.

RECEIVING THE SPECIAL CARGOS

Colonel NGUYEN QUE

Former Chief of Unit 195

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

The construction site of Uncle Ho's Mausoleum was bustling with a new wave of enthusiasm in February 1975. The focus was on accelerating the construction progress and installing machinery to meet the deadline for the mausoleum's inauguration in September in the same year. Despite the joyful and energetic atmosphere, people worked tirelessly day and night, even forgoing Sundays and holidays. However, underneath each person's outward enthusiasm lurked apprehension and dread. Why was the air conditioning system, akin to the mausoleum's critical lungs, still cloaked in mystery, and why was the complete set of glass coffins still waiting their turn?

Toward the end of the month, exciting news arrived from Hai Phong: the ship carrying the air conditioning equipment had arrived at buoy "0," bringing relief and excitement to the whole work site, particularly to the members of the Engineer Brigade 259 of the Engineering Corps.

Deputy Prime Minister Do Muoi, the Head of the Mausoleum Construction Committee, assigned a crucial task:  a process that usually took a month, but the equipment must reach the Mausoleum within 5 days.

The situation demanded urgent action. As night fell, a truck transported us to the Vietnam Railway General Authority to provide the orders for shipping the goods. We rushed to Hai Phong after finishing this operation to transmit the directives to the Port Director. It was already late, and after a quick thought, the Port Director stated, "It's too late now." You and your friends will go to buoy '0' tomorrow morning to meet the ship owner." We considered to ourselves that this arrangement was really advantageous.

At exactly 6 AM the next morning, a small boat carried all of us out of the port, gently gliding through the vast misty expanse. In about an hour, we reached buoy "0" to meet the ship owner. This ship was a brand-new ocean liner just completed in Poland, hired by the Soviet Union to transport goods for us.

The Port Director informed the ship owner, "This afternoon, wait for the tide, and your ship will enter the port to unload the cargo." Needless to say, the ship's owner and crew were overjoyed. The joyous booze began to flow immediately, and a feast was planned, consisting primarily of dry and chilled food but being fairly plentiful.

There were still dozens of ships at buoy "0" waiting to enter the port in a planned order, so this ship would have to wait at least 15 days. The officers and sailors on board the ship were allowed to get in the port in the afternoon, which was beyond their expectation. No one can hold back their happiness.

Returning to the Vietnam Railway General Authority, it was determined that, within one or two days, nine flatbed rail cars had to be present at the Hai Phong port. Due to the large and tall dimensions of the equipment, regular railcars wouldn't pass through Long Bien Bridge. At that time, there were about ten flatbed rail cars scattered at various stations from Lang Son to Thanh Hoa in the Northern region. To meet the deadline, any station that had a flatbed railcar with the appropriate size would send it back to Hanoi, forming a convoy headed for Hai Phong. It was a remarkable race against time.

Back at the port, the cargo ship had been guided that night. The next morning, after unloading the cargo, the train convoy, mainly consisting of flatbed railcars, arrived punctually.

Even though the port deployed the most skilled and safe stevedore team, the train convoy had a Hero of Labor driver with an advanced service team that had worked for many years.

After unloading, and once the equipment was securely fastened, the train convoy immediately departed for Hanoi. The locomotive was splendidly adorned with flags and slogans, exuding a powerful atmosphere. The police force had developed a very detailed protection plan for the train convoy, ensuring absolute safety. Each railcar had police officers guarding it. The train didn't stop at any stations along the way. The railway staff at each station wore uniforms, expressing their respect. National Highway 5, running parallel to the railway, had police officers stationed along it, preventing any accidents where cars might lose control and collide with the train. Large bridges like Lai Vu, Phu Luong, and Long Bien were all meticulously guarded both above and below the river. Surrounding each bridge column were police patrol boats, ensuring safety.

The train arrived at Giap Bat station, and it was just getting dark. Four days had passed. The police force, as well as modern equipment, had been mobilized to ensure the train's safety while resting here overnight.

The next morning, the construction site's convoy of vehicles was present at the station, ready to receive the cargo. Due to the cargo's height and importance, each vehicle had a police officer for protection and an electrician with an insulating rod ready to lift the power lines for the vehicles to pass. Police cars led the way and secured the convoy's tail. The transportation procession was safe and sound, reaching the Mausoleum exactly five days after the cargo was at buoy "0."

When the cargo arrived at the construction site, the foreign experts and our team immediately opened the crates for inventory. It was truly excellent. The air conditioning equipment, weighing over 160 tons and designed by the Soviet Union with hundreds of components from various machines purchased from countries like Japan, the United States, Denmark, etc., had been transported over tens of thousands of miles without the slightest damage. If even a minor issue had occurred that required replacement, it would have been impossible to meet the deadline.

With the machines in place, without a moment's rest, the Machine Installation Command launched a new phase of competition: "Complete the air conditioning system in 40 days."

* *

On a late spring morning in 1975, the reception team from the construction site of Uncle Ho's Mausoleum awaited the arrival of specialized vehicles at Gia Lam Airport. The distant rumbling sounds became increasingly audible around 10 AM, under magnificent sunshine, when the aircraft with registration number 42988 softly dropped into the runway. The pilot team and the receiving team promptly joined forces after taking a group photo and began unloading the cargo from the plane onto the specialized vehicles, amidst the euphoria of those celebrating the arrival. The aircraft's rear door opened, and each vehicle took turns accepting the load.

This cargo was the full set of glass coffins, meticulously disassembled and securely packaged for transit. These objects were designed and manufactured by the Soviet Union and were created in a variety of highly specialized facilities, displaying modern and exact craftsmanship. Individually manufactured with sophisticated technology, the translucent glass panels were several dozen layers thick and allowed light to travel through without refraction. The lifting equipment was built on the screw axis idea, ensuring ultimate precision and safety. Multiple sets of multi-beam lights were routed through a lens filter system, ensuring adjustable light hues while limiting heat generation.

Due to its importance, it was transported by air, even though it incurred significantly higher costs compared to sea transport.

Once secured, the convoy traveled slowly and cautiously towards the Mausoleum construction site, under the close protection of Hanoi's police colleagues. A new concern surfaced just as the receiving team was getting thrilled. When exposed to extreme weather fluctuations, these precision instruments warped, endangering the essential air tightness during assembly. As a result, it was suggested that they be stored in air-conditioned rooms with controlled humidity. It was difficult to find medium-sized air conditioning systems at the time. People, however, were prepared to offer their equipment wherever they could because of their strong devotion to Uncle Ho. The usage of the Ba Dinh Club, a senior officers' club, was allowed by Comrade Do Muoi, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Mausoleum Construction Committee, as a temporary storage location.

The club's table tennis area was immediately refurbished, with walls perforated, wide doors installed, and four medium-sized air conditioning units installed. Following successful trial runs and parameter checks, the equipment was opened for storage in accordance with rules, ready to be relocated for installation inside the Mausoleum as soon as conditions permitted.

The foreign expert from the Soviet Union was primarily responsible for building the glass coffin equipment inside the Mausoleum, with Vietnamese technical officials and others supporting and overseeing the operation.

So, if the air conditioning system represented the "special lungs of the Mausoleum," the glass coffin apparatus represented the "big heart." The Soviet and our teams collaborated successfully to achieve quality and timely progress.

Many years later, the apparatus is still operational, contributing greatly to the long-term preservation of Uncle Ho's bones. This is a priceless gift for the officers, soldiers, and operators that labored on the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum construction site.

MEMORIES OF THE "C100" SCHOOL

 

Colonel NGUYEN PHUC TRI

Deputy Chief of Staff

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

After a devastating failure in the strategic air raids on Hanoi, Haiphong, and numerous locations in the North at the end of 1972, the U.S. had to declare an end to bombing throughout North Vietnam and accept a return to negotiations in Paris. On January 27, 1973, the "Agreement on Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam" was formally signed among the parties, simultaneously ending the role of U.S. military forces on the Southern front. However, they did not abandon their long-term plan to occupy South Vietnam. The U.S. increased aid, rapidly reinforced puppet forces, and maintained control over the puppet regime in the South within the orbit of the U.S. empire. Supported by the U.S., puppet forces actively undermined the Paris Agreement, continuously launching offensives to seize liberated areas. The war in the South continued fiercely.

"Vietnam on our chosen path, listening to the wind blowing through our green fields, hearing the waves roaring far to the horizon... We won’t rest until peace comes to our Fatherland..." The lyrics echoed persistently in our hearts, motivating us, the young soldiers, to heed the sacred call of the Motherland and follow in the footsteps of our fathers to fight the enemy.

After three months of training at Battalion 4, Engineer Brigade 144 - General Staff in Gia Lam, Hanoi, some fresh troops from Cho Don district, Bac Thai province, and Kim Boi district, Hoa Binh province were chosen for a "special mission." The first meeting place was Nhon, Tay Tuu commune, Tu Liem district, Hanoi. There were also fresh soldiers from other Battalions 2 and 3 of Engineer Brigade 144 from various areas, such as Yen Lap district, Thanh Son district, Vinh Phuc province; Dinh Hoa district, Phu Luong district, Bac Thai province.

After a week of researching the revolutionary scenario, the battalion resumed its selection of around 900 new recruits. Major Do Hai, the Political Commissar of Engineer Brigade 144, and some other party members led the selection. The first condition was height; anyone shorter than 165 cm was excluded. Other requirements included a balanced appearance, military manner, and the absence of any physical abnormalities or verbal difficulties. Although it was kept a secret and not officially stated, we had a feeling that those chosen were intended for the particular responsibility of guarding President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Everyone hoped to be chosen, so the excitement and expectation were apparent.

We were ordered to march to the training area after honoring the 30^th anniversary of the formation of the Vietnam People's Army on December 22, 1974.

The training center was in Tam Nong district, Vinh Phu province. The camp was nestled among verdant hills, and the surrounding environment was dotted with sumac trees, a type of tree linked with the proverb "Sumach only kisses what on the face of who they love”. Officers and non-commissioned officers greeted us, youthful but robust in stature, with sun-darkened skin and names like "My uc," "Son lap," "Ba gai"... These were officers who had just graduated from the officer training course and would serve as platoon leaders, squad leaders in charge of training. We were organized into three platoons, and I belonged to Squad 6, Platoon 2. The entire company was equipped with CKC rifles with shining bayonets. Each person was given a pair of Soviet leather boots (Cossack boots) and a new uniform. After two days of preparation work, the opening ceremony of the training course took place succinctly but solemnly. On the podium were the commanders of Engineer Brigade 144, representatives from the General Staff, and the Military Security Directorate. The entire company stood attentively as if absorbing every word spoken by Engineer Brigade Chief Vu Ngach. He stated, "With boundless love and eternal gratitude to the great President Ho Chi Minh, in accordance with the earnest wish of the entire Party, people, and army, especially our compatriots in the South, the Party and the State have decided to preserve the great leader's body and build His Mausoleum. On September 02, 1973, the construction of President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was officially started in Ba Dinh Square. The construction is proceeding urgently, and you, comrades, have the honor of being selected for special training, a mission to protect President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It is an honor for yourselves, your families, your homeland, a great honor, but it also comes with immense responsibility. You must dedicate yourselves, study, and train to become excellent defenders representing the heroic Vietnam People's Army, safeguarding His rest. Our army has School 200, School 300, School 400... and today, School 100 is established to train these loyal defenders." In this solemn atmosphere, our platoon leader read the oath, and all echoed the honor pledge: pledging to study and train continuously, to live, fight, work, and study following the example of the great President Ho Chi Minh.

Guarding President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was an entirely new task. Based on references and research on the experiences of Lenin Mausoleum, the training command developed a comprehensive training program suitable for Vietnam's scenarios. Among the training contents, the discipline of standing in formation was perhaps the most challenging, requiring both physical strength and strong determination. We had two sessions of standing in formation every week, starting with 30 minutes and gradually increasing to 45 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, with our record being 5 hours. Before the training session, we were allowed to warm-up and make all preparations, personal hygiene, and then assume the formation position for standing at attention. After checking the proper posture, the command "Attention, begin" was given. The first 20 minutes seemed simple. After martial arts training, gun drills, marching, bayonet drills, and gymnastics, standing at attention like this seemed like a break. At first, everyone thought so, but after 30 minutes, standing at attention became a challenging ordeal, only those who had experienced it could truly understand. To cultivate willpower and determination, the company rule was that under no circumstances were we allowed to leave the formation until the training time elapsed. Thus, from around the first hour onwards, occasional sounds of rifles hitting the ground and the wrestling noises of bodies falling could be heard. We called it being "downed." A medical team was always on standby to provide assistance. To meet the physical demands of the training exercises, physical fitness training was emphasized. Our regular physical exercise was long-distance running; every morning without exception, after the wake-up call, we would go for a 30km run.

August, the historic autumn, those days, all across the country, everyone focused on Ba Dinh Square. Everyone anticipated the inauguration of President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. On August 20, 1975, we received orders to march back to Hanoi. Before that, we had visited Ba Dinh twice to familiarize ourselves with the actual terrain. Sitting on the amphibious truck, we sang loudly the military marches and the song “We have Uncle Ho in the victorious day”. Assembling in Ba Dinh, Company 100 was divided into three teams: Honor Guard, Special Security, and Armed Security. I was assigned to the Honor Guard. From here, my C100 journey, my first military training, came to an end.

The first guard duty at President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was filled with emotions. Even now, I remember vividly that autumn morning. I was tasked with being the second guard on duty next to President Ho's body. The first guard was Ha Van Tang, the third was Bui Thanh Vung from Kim Boi, Hoa Binh (now discharged), and the fourth was Nguyen Trong Nghia (now the team leader of Team 285 Historic Site). The room felt warm and peaceful. President Ho was resting peacefully. Above his head were two flags - the Party flag and the National flag, made from over 4,000 pieces of pink jade. The hammer and sickle and the five-pointed star were crafted from bright yellow vein marble. After the mourning ceremony of Party and State leaders, it was the turn of military units, police, militia, and self-defense forces to participate in the parade, allowing President Ho Chi Minh first to be ready for duty on the Independence Day celebration on September 02.

More than 30 years have passed since those soldiers from C100 stood guard for the first time. Among them, some have grown into high-ranking officers in the military, some have been discharged and become doctors, teachers, lawyers, businessmen; some have returned to a normal civilian life. However, wherever they are, in whatever capacity, they are still worthy of the trust, love, and admiration that the Party, the army, and the people have given to the "Soldiers of President Ho's Mausoleum." As for me, despite attending training in various military schools later on, C100 remains a profound memory in the life of a soldier that I will never forget.

THE COLORS OF UNCLE HO’S UNIFORM

 

Colonel TRAN QUANG CHAU

Former Deputy Chief of Staff

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

Welcoming Uncle Ho back to the Mausoleum, witnessing the endless stream of people paying tribute to him day by day, including officials, workers, soldiers, and those tasked with safeguarding his eternal rest, is a profoundly moving experience. Each individual silently pledges to Uncle Ho a determination to excel in their duties, ensuring the absolute long-term safety of Uncle Ho's body for future generations to visit, admire, and follow the path he chose.

As a technical officer entrusted for many years with the responsibility of securing supplies for the task of preserving Uncle Ho's body and the activities of the Mausoleum, I vividly recall the significant and sensitive task of choosing the fabric and color of Uncle Ho's uniform. This was a matter of utmost importance, not only in terms of color but, more crucially, ensuring that the fabric material was suitable for preserving the body and facilitating the ceremonial tributes. The fabric had to withstand decay, not turn yellow when exposed to preservation solutions, be resistant to wrinkles, and remain unaffected by moisture.

During his lifetime, Uncle Ho often wore a light yellow khaki uniform on major occasions, when receiving foreign leaders or visiting various sites such as factories, schools, and military units. This image became deeply ingrained in the hearts of our people. It was also the color chosen for Uncle Ho's attire when bidding him farewell on his long journey. The color of Uncle Ho's uniform is one of the distinctive features of his beloved image in the hearts of our people and international friends, deserving respect and preservation.

Therefore, finding the right fabric to match Uncle Ho's attire was imperative. Though the quantity needed was not large, such fabric was exceedingly rare in the market at that time. In the rationed grocery stores of the centrally planned economy, the variety and color of available fabrics were extremely limited. Even on the open market, the options were few, and the origin of the fabric, if found, was uncertain. Was it reliable, and could it be consistently supplied?

To tackle with this challenge, the procurement officers suggested seeking assistance from the General Textile Corporation. Subsequently, the High Command personally liaised with the Deputy Minister of Light Industry, who also served as the General Director of the General Textile Corporation of Vietnam. The outcome of their meeting was swift and efficient. Following this, the General Textile Corporation requested the High Command to provide the fabric material and color for the Vietnam Textile Technology Institute to analyze, accurately count the quantity, assess the quality of the fabric fibers, and establish a production process. The General Textile Corporation assigned the Thanh Cong Textile Factory to weave this particular fabric.

After two months of diligent research, the skilled hands of the Thanh Cong Textile Factory's artisans successfully produced the required quantity of fabric. Before accepting the fabric, our unit entrusted Institute 69 to thoroughly examine and send samples to the Soviet Union for testing. The results of both Vietnamese and Soviet tests were excellent. The entire batch of fabric was then delivered to our unit for the tailoring of Uncle Ho's attire.

Gazing at the rolls of fabric that were tested and met all the specified requirements in a short period, I silently expressed gratitude for the sentiments and intelligence of the officers and workers of the Thanh Cong Textile Factory. Additionally, I highly ranked the contributions of people and soldiers nationwide who actively joined their hands, demonstrating their deep gratitude to Uncle Ho, whom they cherished immensely.

HOT & COLD FIGURES

 

Colonel LUONG LAM

Former Chief of Unit 195

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

The air ventilation and air conditioning system of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a large and comprehensive system. The survey work from the pre-design stage was meticulously carried out, referencing many similar projects both domestically and internationally. The system is equipped comprehensively, and regular maintenance and periodic upgrades are executed according to a tight schedule. The continuous operation for many years has demonstrated the effectiveness and reliability of this technological system. However, due to the impact of the tropical climate and the operational characteristics of the structure, there have been times when the technical system faced disturbances from the environment, exceeding the predicted scenarios and requiring further refinement.

The operational unit, in collaboration with Soviet experts, successfully addressed some complex technical issues right from the early years.

Upon taking over operations, immediate attention was given to resolving any technical malfunctions, large or small, occurring in the technological system. Assigned personnel monitored and quickly identified various issues, regardless of the time, responding promptly to any reports of malfunctions. Whether it was an unusual sound from the shaft bearings, uneven tension of the belts, or erratic signals with seemingly stable parameters, the team investigated and compared direct readings with remote sensing device records, inspecting for irregularities or misalignments. An argument broke out in the main machine room one night due to concerns of a failing motor producing a damaged valve. Despite the 4-meter-high ladder, the team members took turns climbing up to examine. The engine and valve were found to be in good working order, but one contact lug had become trapped on the spring. As a result, the signal light on the display panel showed a valve malfunction.

False alarms occurred on several occasions, but no one hesitated to engage in similar tasks for other occurrences.

The focus was particularly on monitoring any unusual occurrences, especially when multiple issues happened simultaneously. Vigilance extended to assessing the storage capacity to address and resolve these incidents.

Before long, a complex technical malfunction occurred sooner than anticipated: dew formation within the structure and overloading of the main equipment. On Wednesday, September 17, 1975, at 9:20 AM, during the visitation ceremony, an unusual occurrence took place. The hot and humid outdoor air, pressurized, forced its way through the two large doors (facing east) in the center of the building. The volume of air involved was substantial, potentially several times the capacity of the mechanical ventilation system installed in the Mausoleum. Hundreds of square meters of walls, ceilings, and stone floors quickly became cool, causing condensation, water dripping, and forming streams. The strong wind outside, combined with high humidity, led to water puddles throughout the foyer and at the base of the two entrance staircases. The stagnant air carried a strong musty smell, making the environment warm and damp. Even the red carpet, once vibrant, was now swollen and faded due to water retention.

The visitation had to be temporarily halted right outside the Mausoleum. Dozens of comrades from the architectural and hygiene units were immediately mobilized, equipped with mops, pushcarts, chairs, and ladders, swiftly resolving the situation. Fifteen minutes later, the memorial service resumed. However, it had to be repeated again just one hour later.

On that day, the sun wasn't scorching, but the weather was oppressively hot (with relative humidity up to 85%). The strong east wind blew directly into the structure. I observed this situation throughout the morning. As individuals who had experience in design work and teaching about the climate of military construction at the Engineer Corps and the Military Technical Academy, we did not need much time to find the cause but were shocked by the rapid disruption caused by this incident.

In the following week, we revisited the design documents and used measuring instruments to clarify the main and accompanying phenomena. We then focused on finding ways to solve the unusual problem and what needed to be done.

The answer came from the design documentation study: there was no objective of "anti-dew" in the operation task of the four central air-conditioning systems. The issue of countering major environmental disturbances entering the structure was not considered during the original design. That was clear.

The key point at this time was how to solve the "anti-dew" problem. In theory, various factors could be studied:

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a unique structure. During the memorial service, the main entrance of the Mausoleum had to be fully open (unlike regular structures that can be completely closed).

Therefore, there was a need and a possibility to create an air barrier with the idea of "having a door as if there were no door." The creation of this "soft" barrier would not pose significant challenges for our mechanical equipment, but the external architecture of the Mausoleum would undergo significant distortion. Who could accomplish such a task?

All these were enormous issues at the time (1975-1976). The theoretical solutions outlined had low feasibility. So, no viable solution had been selected!

We believed that, for the time being, there was no feasible measure for preventing dew. However, concerning overloading, we still had to actively increase the cooling capacity of the air-conditioning units. Because the cooling capacity is the dynamic energy to serve regularly and can also resist disturbances. Recognizing this situation, the on-duty expert team at the Mausoleum reported to Moscow. The leading design experts' team arrived in Hanoi two months ahead of schedule to help us solve this significant problem. At the Noi Bai airport, Mr. Ravi (from the Soviet Union) jokingly said, "The cold figures have heated us up."

For several consecutive days, we all worked tirelessly, opening and closing machines for measurements and calculations, engaging in extensive discussions, and then concluding with technical water parameters: the technical water outlet temperature of the air-conditioning units had to be lowered by another 3°C. Only then could we achieve the declared unit capacity. This critical conclusion made us concerned because the water temperature was close to the freezing point. Even a slight oversight could lead to blockages and ruptures of heat exchange pipes. Therefore, additional safety measures had to be implemented.

Lowering the technical water temperature obviously allowed for a significant increase in the cooling capacity of the air-conditioning units.

We also gained valuable insights into craftsmanship skills that combined quantity and quality. Adjusting pressure for specific working areas with short-term anti-disturbance needs, and early cutting off oscillations (and reducing the amplitude of fluctuations) were learned skills. Operators in B32 and F2 rooms had additional operational guides, practical exercises, and enhanced operational skills. Some comrades even took the technician level test ahead of schedule.

***

One day, Mr. Ra-vin got a collection of documents I had gathered from the Lang Meteorological Station. The condensed content included statistics on "the frequency of east and southeast winds during the hot season in Hanoi and the average wind speeds in various months."

Although the document was thin, Mr. Ra-vin read it for quite some time, contemplative. He said, "The probability of having winds from the east and southeast is high. We can increase the cooling capacity for the air conditioner, but it's only sufficient to counter low-intensity dew cases. There are still many other factors to consider, including the operational adjustment skills of the operators!" With a smile, he recited a Russian folk song: "Having a small bird in hand is better than waiting for a goose to fly in the sky. Isn't it?"

We all laughed together. Mr. Ra-vin was a seasoned expert with many degrees, having designed numerous structures. He recognized the limitations and the relative achievements quite objectively.

We (the Soviet fellows and our Vietnamese delegation) could not forget the sleepless nights spent together building equipment models and monitoring operations. Our hearts beat in unison when faced with challenging situations and soared with excitement when seeing positive results (the figures on the charts were entirely dynamic and revealing). Those moments, the seemingly alive numbers, created unforgettable impressions.

Since 1990, your technical experts no longer worked at the Mausoleum. Through efforts to rise, the team of scientific and technical officers and operating workers fully mastered the technical aspects of the Mausoleum.

Temperature and humidity parameters, hot and cold figures, the struggles, and the joy of creativity - all these encompass the efforts of fellow workers and engineers across various generations. It also reflects the leadership and management, as well as the camaraderie of friendly allies from times not too distant.

The Last Night of autumn

 

Major General NGUYEN NGOC LAM

Political Commissar

President Ho Chi Minh Maus Political Commissar oleum High Command

In military life, everyone has numerous memories, joy and sorrow intertwined, marking pivotal moments in their lives, leaving indelible imprints in their memories. For me, receiving the assignment from the Ministry of National Defense to work at Unit 969 (President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command) and participating for the first time in combat duty at the Mausoleum was an unforgettable memory.

In 1981, after 13 years of active duty in various battlefields such as the Central Highlands, Southern Laos, and the Southwest, and two international missions in Cambodia (in 1970 and 1979), I received the assignment to work at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. On July 15, 1981, I arrived at the unit to assume my duties. The first person I met at the Command Headquarters was Mr. Bui Su, who guided me to the offices I needed to visit. The cheerful and considerate attitude of the comrades, officers, and staff members in the Unit left a positive and beautiful impression on me. After over two months serving as the Assistant to the Organization Committee under the Political Department, I was introduced to the special political mission, the traditions of the soldiers guarding the Mausoleum, received combat training, and visited the Mausoleum.

During the weekly work program of the High Command, I felt genuinely excited, reminiscent of the feelings during the days of preparing for military service or gearing up for a new battle. On November 10, 1981, I was on duty with Mr. Do Huu Ngap. It was crucial to prepare thoroughly for the first duty, as my past experience in battlefields taught me that a well-prepared battle would secure victory and minimize casualties.

In the evening, after receiving our assignments, Ngap spent time instructing me on the specific duties of the assistant on duty, assigning tasks, and then encouraging me:

"The first duty is significant! We'll do our best to ensure that the first shift will remain deeply embedded in our thoughts later on."

That day was the first time I wore the official uniform, and looking in the mirror, I felt neat and mature.

As the night fell, the silent room added to the tranquility of the surroundings.

Ngap was inspecting the duty positions, and I, as a habit after each working day, took a few minutes to visualize the entire day's tasks: what was completed, what was not done or not done well, and what I would work on the next day. Perhaps, this was the first night in the combat zone, being on duty at the Mausoleum, so my emotions were stirred, restless... Memories of those years started to unfold in my mind:

My first day on military duty was February 24, 1968, when I and the youth from the village, the commune, were heading to the military service. The farewell atmosphere was vibrant: flags, slogans, young men and women either laughing and chatting loudly or awkwardly saying goodbye with hesitant gestures, choked with emotion. I also had my own beautiful unforgettable memories.

On April 24, after two months of training, our unit received orders to march south for combat. Due to the demands of the battlefield, our training lasted only two months, with no leave. From Nho Quan, Ninh Binh, following the Ho Chi Minh Trail, we marched for nearly three months, crossing thousands of kilometers to reach the Central Highlands battlefield. The arduous and harsh journey, nights dreaming of church bells, roosters crowing, birds singing... evoked intense homesickness for the homeland. Recalling the memories before entering the military, I was chosen to join the militia force in defense of the homeland against the destructive war by the United States. Although it was fierce, it could not compare to the difficulties, hardships, and casualties as in the battlefield…

Lost in thought, recalling the duty, I stood up, adjusted my uniform, and inspected the duty positions. Every engine room was the same; the operating workers were attentive, recording humidity readings. Some engines roared loudly, drowning out human voices. Many comrades looked at me, some meeting me for the first time. I stopped at room B32 and asked a worker:

"How do you feel about the daily work? Is it stressful?"

The worker confidently replied:

"We're used to the duty. We feel like missing something on days off, the sound of the machines has been an indispensable part of our life."

I smiled at the worker. His joy and confidence resonated with my emotions. It was indeed interesting.

Suddenly, 12 years had passed. When Uncle Ho passed away, my comrades from C2 K4, Engineer Brigade 24 were stationed at a high point in Gia Lai province, the Central Highlands. Hearing the special announcement on the Voice of Vietnam radio about President Ho Chi Minh's death, we were shocked and filled with sorrow. Our unit held the memorial ceremony for Uncle Ho in the trenches amid pouring rain. Tears, raindrops soaked the dark faces, enduring the rain and the scorching sun during those fierce fighting days. Meanwhile, the enemy was both brutal and cunning. On one hand, they used OV-10 planes to broadcast the news of Uncle Ho's death, spreading propaganda calling for our forces to surrender; on the other hand, they used B-52 bombers to drop intense bombs. The sounds of planes and bombs thundered day and night. My comrades and I maintained high combat spirits, courageously guarding the post, firmly defeating all the enemy's schemes. A few days later, our unit organized a counterattack, then launched an ambush against the enemy's tanks near the Gia Nhien stream, close to the Huynh village, achieving a clear victory. On September 11, 1969, during the fierce battle, I was admitted to the Party right on the battlefield. It was a sacred and honorable event in my military life. At that time, I was just over a year into my military service, turning 19 years old.

Leaving the Mausoleum, before me was the vast space of Ba Dinh Square, a historical site. It was late autumn, the night was clear, the gentle breeze refreshing. The atmosphere was immersed in the intoxicating fragrance of tuberose and jasmine. Looking at the two soldiers standing guard at the Mausoleum's gate, I felt their solemnity and sanctity. After inspecting the Mausoleum, seeing that the guards were in their proper positions, maintaining their posture and high combat readiness, I felt reassured about the guard duty, intending to close my eyes for a while. However, that night, I was restless until morning.

The images of the workers, the honorary soldiers, armed guards, standing before the Mausoleum, resembled my days in the battlefield. The discipline of guard duty and combat duty at the post was strict; any negligence or complacency could sometimes cost lives. Here, at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, everyone was the same – maintaining a dignified and disciplined posture, self-awareness, day and night, continuously adhering to the mission, not allowing any mistakes or oversights to occur…

The preparation for Uncle Ho's visitation ceremony began. After monitoring the High Command, unit duties, and technical checks were completed, I paused to observe Uncle Ho more closely. There he lay, his beard, hair, serene face, and rosy skin as if he had just closed his eyes. In my imagination, I wondered how Uncle Ho could sleep peacefully when the country was still in a fierce war, the pain of millions of compatriots in the South adding to Uncle Ho's sorrow. Next to my ear echoed a verse: "Throughout his life, Uncle Ho couldn't sleep well / Now that Uncle Ho sleeps, we keep watch for him."

Exactly at 8 AM, Uncle Ho's visitation ceremony began. Watching people entering the Mausoleum with solemnity and silence, I felt increasingly moved and proud. Each person coming to pay respects to Uncle Ho could see the image of the genius leader of the nation, enhancing their trust in the path he had chosen. I told myself: To make everyone who comes to visit Uncle Ho feel the serene and peaceful scenery, everyone must have a perception of the silent, diligent work of those who guard Uncle Ho's sleep day and night. It wasn't just the soldiers standing in front of the Mausoleum or the soldiers in neat uniforms guarding and guiding visitors to Uncle Ho, but behind them was a team of officials, medical staff, and technicians tirelessly caring for Uncle Ho's body, operating the equipment with safety.

And so, the first duty shift, like the first battle, was successfully completed. There were no cheers of victory as in the battlefield, but my heart was filled with a glowing joy. That first duty shift became a source of encouragement, boosting my confidence as I walked steadfastly through the process of fulfilling the duties of a soldier guarding beside Uncle Ho's Mausoleum for the past 25 years.

"THE OFFICER OF OFFICERS" - A WORTH RECOGNITION

 

Colonel DUONG DUC THAC

Deputy Head of Political Department

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

After a few days since returning to my unit for a new position in October 1981, the Activity Organizing Committee held a meeting attended by Comrade Luong Soan, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Commander. Before delving into the main content of the meeting, Comrade Nguyen Dinh Minh, the Head of the Committee, read out the decision from the Ministry of National Defense appointing me as the Head of the Personnel Committee, replacing the previous comrade. Subsequently, Comrade Minh introduced Comrade Luong Soan to deliver a speech, assigning tasks to me and encouraging the members of the committee.

With the warm and rustic tone of someone from Quang Nam, Comrade Luong Soan emphasized, "The Personnel Committee must truly be a reliable place for officers in the unit to entrust their feelings and trust. Each member of the Personnel Committee must genuinely deserve to be the officer among officers."

After Comrade Minh retired, the After a few days since returning to my unit for a new position in October 1981, the Activity Organizing Committee was left with three members: Nguyen Bac Son, Doan Duc Xuan, and myself. In my new position, I conducted field research, engaged in learning, carried out tasks, and received task handovers. Together with the committee members, we continued researching, supplementing, and completing the personnel planning report and work plan of the unit to be submitted to the Personnel Bureau on time.

The workload was substantial, and the time for completion was tight. Just stepping into the role of the Head of the Personnel Committee, I couldn't help but be anxious because "the beginning is always difficult." I worried whether the committee members could meet the planned deadlines and maintain the quality of their work. Numerous thoughts and concerns about the work lingered in my mind day and night.

All those concerns seemed to intensify as the time for reporting to the Standing Committee approached. It was on a midweek day in January 1982. That morning, I woke up earlier than usual to prepare thoroughly for the remaining tasks. I took the opportunity to carefully read through my report to prevent any "hiccups" during the presentation.

The Standing Committee meeting included comrades Nguyen Hong Quang - Party Secretary, Luong Soan - Deputy Party Secretary, Nguyen Van Tuong - Standing Committee member.

My report covered personnel planning and the personnel work plan for 1982. Despite thorough preparations by committee members, for some reason, I still felt nervous during the presentation. However, with the encouragement and support of the Standing Committee members, I presented the Personnel Committee's report smoothly. I was genuinely pleased after hearing all three Standing Committee members express agreement with the report's content. They believed it was a high-quality report, both fundamental and focused. The report adhered to the key points outlined in the resolution of the higher authorities regarding the practical situation of personnel work in the unit.

Following a general evaluation and discussion, the Standing Committee spent considerable time discussing criteria comprehensively, focusing on the political and revolutionary ethics qualities of the officer corps, cognitive capacity, organizational advisory capacity, professional competence, knowledge, and age. The Standing Committee emphasized the need to prioritize both qualities and capabilities, with a fundamental focus on political and revolutionary ethics as the foundation.

After thoughtful consideration, Comrade Luong Soan, Deputy Party Secretary and Commander, emphasized the phrase "building a personnel team that is both 'red' and 'competent.'" He pointed out that to achieve this, the central task, first and foremost, was to concentrate on building a leadership and command officer team from the level of the High Command to the grassroots that is genuinely 'red' and 'competent.'

I resonated deeply with Comrade Luong Soan's profound opinions. I understood that, from small to large tasks, superiors should always set an example for subordinates. The leadership should set an example for the deputy, party members should set an example for the masses, officers should set an example for non-commissioned officers and soldiers. The exemplary behavior of superiors always serves as an unspoken command for subordinates to learn and follow. I consistently observed that the Commander was a determined and steadfast leader, wholeheartedly devoted to his work, always fully committed to the task of building a clean and strong Party unit, constructing a comprehensive and strong unit with high combat capability, and always dedicated to the mission of building a personnel team that is both 'red' and 'competent,' as instructed by Uncle Ho.

In the assessment and discussion of personnel planning, the Standing Committee expressed concern that the previous practice often involved promoting deputy officers to replace their superiors. While this approach had its advantages, such as saving time for the newly appointed officer to understand the tasks and unit conditions, it also had drawbacks. It could foster a mindset of "Living long, rising in the ranks," a mentality of "waiting," and sometimes, it could lead to a bias towards "policy" during planning, resulting in individuals being appointed to higher positions without meeting the required qualifications and lacking the trust of the people.

To address these issues, the Standing Committee urged Party Committees at all levels and relevant management agencies to study a more systematic and comprehensive approach to personnel planning. This approach could include sequential and non-sequential methods along the same line, bypassing levels both along and across the line, and horizontal planning at the same level.

Comrade Nguyen Hong Quang, Party Secretary, emphasized in his speech: "We must avoid situations where planning only prepares one person to serve in two or three positions. We should not prepare one person to replace one position." Doing so could lead to a shortage of personnel in the workforce.

In his remarks, Comrade Nguyen Van Tuong, Standing Committee member, highlighted the importance of focusing on arranging and organizing personnel correctly, matching the right person with the right job, at the right time, in the right position, with the right expertise, and the right title, industry, and profession. Taking into account the opinions of the Standing Committee, we, the personnel work officials, gained new and profound experiences and thoughts in our work. Experience has shown that, typically, officers go through various phases, and during the period when officers are at their best, the organization needs to grasp and accurately evaluate officers to timely assign tasks to them. Officers with limited capacity, credibility, and trustworthiness should have their roles re-evaluated, and they should not be assigned to assume the significant responsibilities of the unit. Doing so ensures objectivity, fairness, and honesty in personnel work.

As I write down these profound memories today, it's like reliving the most beautiful moments of the past 25 years (from October 1981 to May 2006). The good feelings, guidance, opinions, thoughts, and discussions of the Standing Committee on personnel planning and work plan that day still resonate deeply within me, bringing back countless unforgettable and beautiful memories.

BUILDING PARTY BASE STRUCTURE 1981-1989

 

Colonel DUONG VAN VIEN

Former Deputy Head of Political Department

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

In the winter of 1980, I received orders from the Ministry of National Defense to transfer to Unit 969 for duty, coming from the Cao Me Lai mountainous region on the Cambodia-Thailand border. With my backpack, I headed to the Political Department of Military Region 7, where I met Colonel Tam Hoa, the Head of Political Department of the Military Region. Curious, I asked, "Dear sir, what is Unit 969?"

Comrade Tam Hoa smiled and replied, "Comrade Vien, it is an honor for you to be reassigned to Unit 969, which is responsible for safeguarding President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum."

Hearing this, I felt a surge of joy and excitement. After participating in the "Traversing the Truong Son Trail to save the Nation" campaign and spending 14 years in the Southern battlefield and international missions in Cambodia, returning to serve as a close guardian protecting the beloved President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was a reward beyond measure.

Reflecting on the past, during my local assignment as a member of the second National Assembly, I had the privilege of meeting President Ho Chi Minh eleven times. The most memorable moments were capturing photographs with him twice and engaging in a conversation once. In 1960, during the Third National Party Congress, I was invited by the Central Party Committee to attend. In the morning of the congress's opening day, during the break, I heard President Ho speaking to people outside the corridor. I tried to squeeze in to stand closer, wanting to hear him better and see him more clearly. After conversing with Comrade Nguyen Lam, the First Secretary of the Central Youth Union, President Ho said, "Comrade Lam, choose a young boy and a young girl, preferably a worker or a peasant, to take a photo with me." Unexpectedly, I, at the age of 25, was chosen along with Sister Len, a worker at the Hai Phong Cement Plant, to take a photo with President Ho.

Assigned to work in Unit 969, I was given the task of leading the Organizing Committee. Drawing upon my accumulated experience in party work and political affairs over the years, I understood the crucial role of organizing in building the Party, particularly at the grassroots level.

In the years 1980-1981, the unit's organization was further perfected. The Ministry of National Defense deemed the placement of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command within the structure of the Army Corps 32 impractical, leading to the decision to make the unit directly subordinate to the Ministry. The organizational structure of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command included various offices, units, and sub-committees. However, the Party Committee of Unit 969 remained at two levels: the Party Committee of Unit 969 (equivalent to the High Command level) and the inter-divisional Party committees of various agencies and units. This party organizational system did not fully exert its leadership strength, command authority, proactive decision-making, and responsibility at the division, brigade, and subordinate unit levels.

Based on the Party Charter of the IV Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam and the specific situation of the Party organization and units engaged in special political tasks, I, along with my comrades in the Organizing Committee, provided advice to the Political Department to report to the Standing Party Committee of Unit 969, the Chief of the High Command, and seek guidance and instructions from the Department of Organization - General Political Department on the plan to strengthen the Party's grassroots organizational system.

With the approval of higher authorities, the Standing Party Committee outlined specific plans for each step, from establishment to expansion. Every division and platoon established party cells, and departments and Institute 69 formed grassroots party committees, with each committee consisting of 4 to 6 cells and electing a party committee (comprising 5 members, including a secretary and a deputy secretary). The cells of the Cadre Board operated within the Party Committee of the Political Department; the cells of the Foreign Affairs Board operated within the Party Committee of the Office; the cells of the Finance Board operated within the Party Committee of the Logistics Department. Each platoon formed a grassroots party committee, with each committee consisting of 5 to 6 cells and electing a party committee (with 5 to 7 members, including a secretary and a deputy secretary). The K84 Team (now the Unit 285) established a grassroots cell directly subordinate to the Party Committee of Unit 969.

Simultaneously with consolidation, the focus was on concretizing the criteria for building a strong and clean grassroots party organization, closely aligned with the practical requirements of the Party committee. This involved consistently conducting effective political education, ideological training, and the management and development of party members. Party committees at all levels and political agencies consistently engage in educating cadres and party members to foster a deep understanding of the Party's guidelines, policies, State laws, and the political tasks of the unit. Party cells are tasked with stringent management of every party member, encompassing political beliefs, ideologies, actions, behavior, and lifestyle. Special attention is given to overseeing party members holding leadership roles at all levels, ensuring their political awareness, moral character, leadership, and command capabilities are in line with expectations. Simultaneously, there is a focus on managing party members who may exhibit disciplinary violations or demonstrate limited capacity.

Focusing on unit leadership, it is crucial for agencies to consistently excel in fulfilling political tasks, serving as a gauge for evaluating the competence and leadership outcomes of each party unit and branch. Based on their position, function, and duties, each party committee and branch must clearly define goals and leadership measures for each month, quarter, and year, highlighting key focal points and tasks. Simultaneously, they should provide guidance and decisively address any existing shortcomings or deficiencies within their respective units and agencies.

Maintaining strict adherence to organizational activities, there should be continuous improvements to enhance the quality of party committee and branch activities. Leadership, combativeness, and educational values must be evident during these activities. Every six months and annually, a review should be conducted, summarizing leadership work and organizing feedback from the public regarding the party organization and its members.

For the cadre team and party members, the emphasis should be on striving for self-improvement according to four standards: maintaining steadfast ideological convictions, being unwaveringly loyal to the Party, the homeland, and the long-term safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body, possessing moral integrity and a wholesome lifestyle, being ready to accept and excel in tasks, actively engaging in collaborative learning to enhance political, military, professional, scientific, and technical knowledge, and effectively carrying out public mobilization efforts.

The Party Committee's emphasis was on developing the Party, especially in units with low leadership ratios (approximately 10%). Local Party committees devised plans for party development each year, each quarter, and each cell. Party recruitment relied on the Youth Union organization, selecting outstanding union members among professional soldiers, defense industry workers, production team leaders, and excellent soldiers. Annually, the Political Department opened a class to educate the masses about the Party, identifying those motivated to join.

Taking care of leadership among the masses, particularly in building and reinforcing the Youth Union organization, educating ideals, and instilling revolutionary traditions in the younger generation, had strategic significance for the nation and the unit.

The efforts to strengthen and improve the organizational system of the party at the grassroots level, along with enhancing the leadership methods of party committees at all levels within the Unit 969 Party Committee from 1981 to 1989, were deemed appropriate for the unit's unique mission. The evaluations of leaders, commanders, and the entire Party Committee affirmed its rationality, contributing to the enhancement of combat effectiveness, leadership capabilities, authority, and tasks of the Party committees at all levels. It also increased the quantity and quality of party members, allowing them to play a role in participating in Party building and excellently fulfilling the political tasks of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

LEADER OF THE TRAINING MISSION

 

Colonel CAO DINH KIEM

Deputy Head of Political Department

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

On the occasion of the 10^th anniversary of the Liberation Day of the Southern region, reunification of the Fatherland (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 1985), Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union (HCYU) of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command organized the "Swift March, Decisive Victory" movement to enhance vigilance, combat readiness, and strengthen the forces for officers and soldiers to meet the mission of "Preserving and ensuring the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body" in the long term.

The march took place on a hot, sultry summer evening. All HCYU members gathered at the  Unit 275’s Yard, organized into two military wings: the first wing consisted of Youth Union members from the Unit 275; the second wing comprised the youth force from other units. The departure time was 8:00 PM, and the march was required to follow the specified route, ensuring speed and absolute safety for personnel and equipped weapons.

The preparation order for the march was announced. Surprisingly, the Internal Security Department of the HCYU informed that Major General Luong Soan - the Commander and Heads of the units of the High Command - would also participate in the march. Everyone was surprised. Major General Luong Soan was a senior leader at the head of the High Command, with numerous important responsibilities. He was much older than us and held a respected position. Nevertheless, here he was, along with other unit leaders, carrying a backpack. Perhaps the leaders knew that besides the equipped weapons, the backpack had to weigh at least 30kg.

In front of the troops, Commander Luong Soan boldly declared: "I will lead the first wing. Comrade Hoang An - Deputy Chief of Staff for Military Affairs will lead the second wing. Unit leaders, followed by the marching formation to encourage and assist the youth union members."

This was our first march - we, officers and soldiers, young members. It was an honor for us to join a highly experienced general. Therefore, everyone felt proud, excited, and eager to demonstrate their youthfulness and march quickly. However, this excitement did not last long. After about 15 minutes, signs of fatigue appeared, the pace slowed down, incomparable to the robust and vigorous stride of a general over 60 years old, who remained resilient, agile, and experienced over more than 40 years of revolutionary activities, advancing through the wilderness. With a lively, enthusiastic, straightforward, and approachable demeanor, General Luong Soan marched and shared with us the revolutionary traditions of his homeland Quang Nam, his family circumstances, and the process of enlightenment and revolutionary activities.

As it turned out, we eagerly asked questions: "Commander, Where in Quang Nam is your hometown?" "Is your hometown difficult and impoverished?" "How is the indomitable heroic tradition in the two resistance wars against French colonialism and the U.S. imperialists in Quang Nam?"

With a warm, Central Vietnamese accent, Comrade Luong Soan recounted, "My hometown is in Tam Hai commune, Tam Ky district, Quang Nam province. It is a coastal commune with beautiful scenery, and the local people mainly make a living by fishing near the shore due to the lack of means to go far. Life is extremely challenging and arduous. Due to the family's difficult circumstances, I only completed the third grade, then had to work and do odd jobs for landlords to ease the burden on my parents, despite diligent labor. However, I was mistreated by the landlord and, unable to endure it, I returned home without accepting the wages (a piece of cloth representing a year's labor for the landlord's family).

Upon returning home, though still young, I actively participated in helping the family with suitable tasks, while unaware that my parents and older siblings were engaged in revolutionary activities and hiding revolutionary cadres in the house. Personally, I sensed and always wondered, 'Why does our family eat boiled sweet potatoes every day, while my parents are still cooking rice and bringing it into a closed room for someone?' Curious and not clear about the situation, along with perceiving the activities of my parents and siblings in the house, a subjective awareness of the injustice of French colonialism and the severe exploitation of the arrogant landlord class, I took a rather daring action. That day, I unexpectedly ran straight into the room and witnessed the cadres printing documents, spreading revolutionary leaflets. All doubts were dispelled, and I officially learned about the activities of my parents, siblings, and the hidden revolutionary cadres.

From that moment, feeling my enlightenment, the organization tested and assigned me tasks such as guarding, serving, and making contact for the organization. After a period of tasks and successful challenges, around 1942, the organization officially recognized and assigned me the task of protecting and making contact for the revolutionary cadres and the Provincial Party Committee's secret activities at the local level."

Later, we learned that Comrade Luong Soan's homeland was a poor coastal area with rich cultural traditions, patriotism, and revolutionary spirit. His close relatives belonged to the poor peasant class, yet they early on grasped the revolutionary spirit and provided a foundation for nurturing revolutionary cadres of the Party and the Provincial Party Committee in Quang Nam. With a grown-up comrade, a senior leader of the Party and the State, such as Comrade Vo Chi Cong - a member of the Political Bureau, the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Comrade Luong Soan himself was educated, nurtured, and directly influenced by the revolutionary traditions of the local area, his family, the revolutionary atmosphere of senior cadre comrades, and his own efforts. Thus, he quickly gained insight and enthusiastically participated in the revolution.

The dynamic atmosphere of the march and the affection of Comrade Luong Soan made us feel more comfortable. A young, sweaty soldier walked quickly towards the Commander and asked, "Commander, could you share a memory of your youth activities?"

After a moment of thought, Commander Luong Soan continued the story: "In October 1943, just turning 20, I officially left my family to join the activities of the Vu Hung Guerrilla Unit. Despite the hardships and sacrifices, I remained eager, actively training to become a Deputy Team leader, leading the unit in many battles. In August 1945, I directly commanded the unit to seize control of the administration in Que Son district, Quang Nam province. Later, the Vu Hung Guerrilla Unit became a legendary historical tradition in the revolutionary struggle for the provincial government in 1945. In September 1945, I voluntarily enlisted to serve the Vietnam People's Army. In July 1946, I had the honor of officially joining the ranks of the Party. I directly participated in many battlefields in various capacities.

There are many memories, but the most memorable and difficult story is my injury. While fighting at the Kon Tum battlefield, in a battle at the Mang Den outpost - a strong defensive point of the French forces, our forces organized several waves but could not penetrate inside to completely annihilate the enemy. The losses were unfavorable for us, so the High Command had to decide to withdraw, organize reconnaissance, study in-depth, build multiple plans, train, educate ideology, and prepare thoroughly in all aspects, resolve to fight and win for the upcoming guerrilla attack. This time, I was directly assigned to command one direction, according to the combat contract, the order to fire simultaneously was given, and the battle quickly ended in victory. While commanding the troops to continue pursuing the fleeing enemy and consolidating, clearing the battlefield, an enemy mortar behind us that had not been completely eliminated suddenly fired wildly, causing me to be seriously wounded. A wound through the abdomen, a wound on the arm. My injury story has very dramatic details, only those who have been in the war, directly experienced combat, truly understand the circumstances, the harshness of war, and believe that it is true. Those who have only heard the story may find it like a soldier's joke.

My abdominal wound was severe, my intestines protruded, and I lost a lot of blood. Since the bandages were limited, the military doctor had to take a rice bowl, press it into the wound, then use a cloth and bandage to tightly wrap the abdomen to stop the bleeding, and handed it over to two medics to rush me to the rear military station for timely treatment. When transporting, we had to pass through dense forests. While moving, the rescue team heard the roaring sound of an approaching herd of elephants. The situation was unexpectedly dangerous; if we continued, it would be unsafe, but turning back was not possible in time. Any small noise could attract the attention of the herd, posing a great danger to everyone. In my position as a commander, with some experience and being seriously injured, I gave the order for the two medics to leave me behind and run away from the elephants. I lay back, held my breath, waited, and if attacked by the elephants, I would die alone. Fortunately, the elephants, for some unknown reason, changed direction. When the area returned to calm, the two medics returned to find me. When we met, we were very moved, embraced each other, cried, rejoicing for the lucky survival, and then continued the journey to take me to the military station for timely treatment.

Later, on one occasion (around 1983-1984), on the way from home (Trich Sai village, Buoi) to work across Hoang Hoa Tham street, I coincidentally recognized one of the two medics who carried me for treatment, who is now known as Mr. Giang, specialized in delivering beer to the Central agencies in Hanoi, commonly referred to as 'Mr. Bia.' The two of us meeting and recognizing each other was unexpected but extremely touching. We hugged each other, shedding tears like the day 30 years ago in the old forests of Tay Nguyen. From then on, we continued to regularly visit each other, recalling old memories. Mr. Giang also gave me back the cloth used to bandage my wounds as a souvenir."

The story of the revolutionary activities and profound memories of Major General Luong Soan is a valuable lesson for our self-cultivation, training, and efforts. Even during that time, it made us forget the heat and all the exhaustion. The marching distance seemed short, and before the story was over, we had safely returned to Unit 275, fully accounted for in terms of personnel and weapons, 10 minutes before the scheduled time, and earlier than the second wing of the unit. Each of us felt excited, happy to return to the unit for rest and preparation for new tasks in a state of admiration and respect for the top leaders, who, despite being at the head of a unit, were virtuous, approachable, enthusiastic about their work, and passionate about the mass movement, especially the young generation whom the Commander always loved and trusted.

A MEMORY OF "Basic Construction Management Committee"

 

Colonel BUI VIET DUNG

Head of the Ba Dinh Square Management Board

In the early days of its establishment, the collective working and dining facilities of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command faced numerous challenges. The High Command offices operated in cramped quarters at No. 1, Ong Ich Khiem Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi. In the afternoons, after sports activities, officers and soldiers would share a communal bath. Some units were located behind the Mausoleum, using temporary military camps left by the construction site of the Mausoleum project. During scorching summer afternoons, the corrugated iron roofs emitted intense heat, becoming a test that strengthened the resilience of the soldiers. However, the honor and pride of living and working at the Mausoleum motivated the officers, workers, and soldiers to quickly stabilize all aspects and focus on excellently fulfilling their special political tasks.

After 8 years of renovations and construction, the living and working spaces had significantly improved. Towards the end of 1983, the unit received Directive No. 300/CT on November 18, 1983, signed by Vice Chairman of the Council of Ministers Do Muoi, instructing the clearance of land for the construction of the Ho Chi Minh Museum. The directive's content is explicit, stating: "For collective housing, offices, and warehouses of the Board responsible for managing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ba Dinh Square, and the Da Minh area (which require renovation to serve additional functions), the Ministry of Construction is tasked with initiating procedures to seek investment capital from the State. The Ministry will also handle the design and construction in accordance with the Museum's construction timeline. The Board responsible for managing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square is responsible for proposing usage requirements, applying for land allocation, and coordinating with the schedule for relocation." Simultaneously, the Ministry of Construction is designated to supervise the construction of the rear area, meeting specific technical needs such as a warehouse, factory, garage for special vehicles, three garages for trucks and cars, and a four-story administration building in the Hao Nam area, O Cho Dua ward, Dong Da district, covering an area of 1.3 hectares. This construction is intended to compensate the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

The clearance for the Ho Chi Minh Museum construction was urgent to meet the deadline for the 100^th anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh's birth on May 19, 1990. However, the land clearance in the Hao Nam area faced obstacles. The agricultural cooperative in Hao Nam did not agree to hand over the land as it was a vital source of livelihood for local residents. The cooperative demanded that if the land was transferred, the unit must provide employment for at least 50 local residents. Due to these difficulties, from 1984 to 1987, the Ministry of Construction and the Construction Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh Museum could not build the technical and logistics area as planned.

Stabilizing the accommodation for the military became imperative during this time. The Standing Committee, Party Committee and High Command had various strategies and solutions to address this issue, leading to the establishment of a temporary Basic Construction Management Board in December 1986. Initially, the board consisted of three members: Lieutenant Colonel, Civil Engineer Tran Quoc Dan, Head of Unit 295 – Head of Board; Senior Lieutenant, Civil Engineer Bui Viet Dung, Head of the Supply Base - Deputy Head of Board; and Senior Lieutenant, Civil Engineer Hoang Cao Thang - Technical Assistant.

The board immediately gained the attention and guidance of the unit's leaders, particularly from Comrade Nguyen Van Tuong, the Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff. The first task of the Construction Management Board was to take over and manage the construction of the technical and logistics area in Hao Nam.

Despite the challenging start, the board promptly accepted and studied the decisions of the Vice Chairman of the Council of Ministers and the technical design plans for the Hao Nam technical and logistics area from the Construction Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh Museum Construction Management Board with a sense of urgency. Each member of the board played a role in understanding the situation and simultaneously mobilizing and persuading the local cooperative leaders to support and assist the unit. The efforts of the board were rewarded when the Hao Nam cooperative agreed to the land transfer, subject to the unit's commitment to providing employment for the local residents, a condition that had been an obstacle for the past four years.

Simultaneously, the entire construction project of the Ho Chi Minh Museum processed urgently and energetically, bringing the completion of the clearance of the land behind the Mausoleum closer. The next challenge was to ensure accommodation for the units, primarily Unit 195, Unit 295, and Unit 275, the main forces of the High Command. The construction of the Hao Nam technical and logistics area was a crucial step forward.

After the death of Major General Luong Soan in June 1987, Nguyen Van Tuong was entrusted with the command. He continued to guide and delegate tasks, emphasizing the importance of securing land in the Hanoi area for the unit's needs. In his role as the unit's leader, he proceeded to provide guidance and task assignments, stating, "The Basic Construction Management Board supervising foundational construction projects is tasked with offering advice and assistance to the High Command in coordinating and applying for approximately 2 hectares of land in the Hanoi area. The land could be located in multiple locations, but it should be in close proximity to the unit for convenient management, command, and operation of the project.”

Finding suitable real estate was a daunting task, but the board understood the significance of this directive from the Party Committee and the High Command.

Initially, they approached the Ngoc Ha Vegetable Cooperative, which had a collective family residence in Dai Yen, but the land did not meet the requirements. They then tried the Thanh Cong Cooperative (which had provided land in 1983 for the K8 family residence), but only small, insignificant plots were available.

The journey led them to the western part of the city. In the Cong Vi area, there were many large ponds, but it was unclear which ward managed the area. After days of investigation, the necessary information was obtained, and it was confirmed that the vegetable and flower Cooperative Cong Vi owned the ponds. Concerns arose about potential complications due to the cooperative's involvement in agriculture. However, after contacting the cooperative leadership, it was evident that the area met the unit's requirements.

The board established a plan for the land acquisition process. Initially, they reported their findings and received high praise from the Commander. He directed the board to invite the cooperative leaders to visit the Mausoleum and the unit for direct discussions. Despite being a brief meeting, the cooperative leaders expressed high agreement with the compensation and land transfer plan, without the requirement to provide jobs for the residents, similar to the situation in Hao Nam. With the successful initial steps, the board urgently prepared the necessary documents and economic-technical justifications to request land allocation from the city of Hanoi and budget approval from the Council of Ministers for the construction investment.

In the summer of 1987, the board invited Nguyen Quyet Chi, a specialist from the Office of the Council of Ministers (currently the Head of the Government Office), to survey the area. The truck took us from Kim Ma street, turning right towards a recently leveled plot of land allocated for the Soviet Embassy to construct the Center for Cultural, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation Research (currently situated in the Japanese Embassy area and Ngoc Khanh parking lot). The vehicle came to a stop at the designated location. Walking on the warm sand, I briefed Mr. Chi about the two land locations that the unit intended to apply for. Observing the two expansive lakes, Mr. Chi jokingly remarked, "Is the High Command asking for a fish release?" The entire group burst into laughter, understanding that he wholeheartedly supported the idea.

After over a year of closely coordinating with the Urban Planning Department and the Basic Construction Management Committee of Hanoi and receiving support from architect Truong Tung, who was then the Deputy Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee and Deputy Head of the Mausoleum Management Board, the board completed the land clearance and technical and economic justifications. The Chairman of the Council of Ministers approved it, and the Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee decided to allocate two land plots, X1 and X2 in Cong Vi, with an area of over 13,000 square meters for the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

After four years of diligent construction, from 1988 to 1991, the Hao Nam technical and logistics area was completed. The warehouses, workshops, garages, petrol stations, transformer stations, and the management and operations center were all impressive, timely facilities to serve the unit's activities. The X1 and X2 areas in Cong Vi were also completed by 1992. The family guesthouses, dormitories, guesthouses, and collective residences with a total construction area of tens of thousands of square meters were promptly prepared to accommodate Unit 195, Unit 295, and other personnel, contributing to the implementation of political missions. Simultaneously, the facilities welcomed 54 families of officers and staff into the collective residential area.

With the correct and timely guidance from the Party Committee of Unit 969, the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command, and the support of the Hanoi People's Committee, within six years (from 1987 to 1992), the unit had established technical facilities to serve its special political mission. The stable location served as a base for building military camps and providing accommodations for the soldiers, progressively enhancing the living conditions and contributing to the resolution of policies to stabilize the rear for the unit's officers, staff, and workers.

In December 1992, the Basic Construction Management Board successfully completed its mission. The board members were reassigned to new tasks in different units. Although the years have passed, the memories of the journey to find land in the heart of Hanoi remain vivid in my mind, especially the figure of Commander - Major General Nguyen Van Tuong.

Vice President Truong My Hoa conferred the title of "Hero of the People's Armed Forces in the Renewal Period" upon President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command (January 24, 2005)

The Head of the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Director of the Moscow Biomedical Research Center signed a collaborative protocol on the preparation of a special solution in Vietnam (Moscow, June 04, 2003).

In March 2004, Russian medical experts, alongside Vietnamese officials and doctors, conducted the preparation of a special solution for the first time in Vietnam.

Workers from Unit 195 monitored technical parameters at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum construction site.

Officials and workers from Unit 595 performed maintenance on air conditioning units within the mausoleum project.

Staff from Unit 275 were on duty to manage the memorial ceremonies during the visitation to President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

THE NEW CHAPTER OF COOPERATION BETWEEN THE SOVIET UNION AND VIETNAM

 

Major General NGUYEN QUANG TAN

Former Head of the Mausoleum Management Board cum Commander

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

Entering the 1990s, significant changes occurred both internationally and domestically. News of the crises and rapid collapse of socialist countries in the Soviet model in Eastern Europe, the stagnation of the "reform" process in the Soviet Union, along with numerous challenges at home, especially in the economic sector, deeply impacted the sentiments and emotions of the people within Vietnam and the organization of tasks for the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

In 1990, the last year of the non-repayable aid agreements from the Soviet Union to Vietnam, including the completion of the Mausoleum from 1985 to 1990, came to an end. In April 1991, a Soviet delegation was sent to Vietnam to negotiate the agreements for the next five years (1991-1995). Under the guidance of the Soviet government, starting from 1991, due to various difficulties, the Soviet Union would no longer provide non-repayable aid to Vietnam. Instead, Vietnam had to repay the Soviet Union through commercial mechanisms. The Mausoleum project was also affected. This posed a significant challenge for the Vietnamese government, especially considering that most materials for the Mausoleum, apart from a few domestically sourceable items, had to be imported, largely from the Soviet Union. In the Mausoleum project, aside from a few materials available in small quantities and of negligible value that we can source domestically, the majority need to be imported, primarily from the Soviet Union. Annually, the Soviets request us to submit purchase orders and process payments through foreign economic agencies. Concerning special medical supplies, monthly salaries for permanent medical experts, and payments for experts periodically working at the Mausoleum, we have the autonomy to plan, but we must adhere to it. Every year, the Soviets insist on us making advance payments in the second quarter.

In addition to these challenges, more unwelcome news came from Moscow. The Institute for the Study of Biological Structure, which directly preserved Lenin's body, was restructured, and the research facility was transferred to the Institute for Medicinal Plant Research under the Soviet Ministry of Agriculture, requiring self-accounting. Some highly specialized personnel had to leave due to economic difficulties. Some extreme elements demanded the removal of Lenin's body from the Mausoleum, proposing burial alongside his parents in Leningrad. The political situation in the Soviet Union was unstable and deeply divided.

Faced with this situation, the Vietnamese Party and State paid special attention to the long-term preservation and absolute safety of Ho Chi Minh's body. The Central Military Party Committee held a special conference on July 10, 1991, to address the new circumstances. The conference, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Khanh, included representatives from the Ministry of National Defense, the Ministry of Health, and the State Scientific Research Committee (Ministry of Science and Technology). Leading scientists from relevant fields, who had been collaborators at the Mausoleum for many years, were also invited. The conference heard reports on the preservation of Ho Chi Minh's body, research results from previous years, and some recommendations. The conclusion drawn by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Khanh was that the government would still entrust the preservation task to the Ministry of National Defense but with a focus on involving scientists. The mobilization of research forces, the establishment of a deep scientific and technical team, and further study for secure handling were emphasized. In the coming year, the Institute 69 under the Mausoleum Command would invest in more in-depth research. The Ministry of Health would oversee medical aspects, and the State Scientific Research Committee would manage scientific affairs, with immediate implementation starting in early 1992. A Scientific Council would be established for supervision and guidance.

The entire content of the conference was kept strictly confidential. After the conference, an atmosphere of anxiety prevailed, reflecting a high sense of responsibility towards the task among the leadership, command, and all officers and party members in the unit, especially the scientific personnel directly responsible for preserving Ho Chi Minh's body. A question arose: Could the unit fulfill the mission without the support of the Soviet Union? For those who had been closely involved in the work for many years, everyone understood that while equipment and technically-related materials could be repaired or replaced, the technology and special chemicals, with only one source of supply from the Soviet Union, posed an unresolved problem.

On August 19, 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed. The mission of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command entered an extremely difficult and challenging phase. However, the issues related to the Soviet Union and Russia gradually faded away, and the unit had to focus on its regular work, the top priority task for the entire year, which was approaching. Fortunately, before the events of August 19, 1991, the necessary quantity of special materials and chemicals had been sent to Vietnam. Professor Iu. A. Romanov, Deputy Director of the Moscow Biomedical Research Center, also arrived at the right time to lead a major medication project for Ho Chi Minh's body. However, during the scheduled periodic maintenance that year, the number of experts reduced significantly as there were no Russian technical experts for maintenance and repair of special technical equipment. In the first year without the assistance of technical experts, the unit's technical and labor force successfully took on the challenge. On November 03, the Mausoleum remained as usual, continuing to open its doors to the people and international guests for Ho Chi Minh's visit.

In a turbulent year full of challenges, the initial hurdles have been overcome. In March 1992, news arrived that the representative of the Trade Agency of Russian Technical Directorate in Vietnam would return to Russia. During his tenure in Vietnam, he consistently showed special attention and affection for the Mausoleum project. His departure was a significant loss for the unit. Before handing over his duties to the successor, I proposed that he transfer all the remaining solutions to our management. Although these solutions were physically at the Mausoleum, his experts still managed them tightly. In essence, these solutions belonged to Vietnam, and he agreed to transfer them after diplomatic efforts and persuasion. Lieutenant General Tran Hanh, the Deputy Chief of Staff, was assigned to directly supervise the work of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. Following the signing ceremony for the handover record between your unit and ours, you remarked, "While the quantity of solutions handed over may not be substantial, and their practical utility might be limited, their significance for scientific research is considerable. The leaders and commanders of the Mausoleum Protection Command should be acutely aware of this and prioritize research and development efforts, particularly in the current context."

Following the provisions of the 1991-1995 Agreement, in early April 1992, the Mausoleum Management Board engaged with representatives of the Russian Federation Embassy in Hanoi to discuss the ordering plan for 1993, concurrently urging the execution of the 1992 ordering plan. Following this meeting, we promptly allocated funds for the purchase of solutions, chemicals, special supplies, and the salaries of permanent medical experts at the Mausoleum. Additionally, funds were set aside for the team of experts who periodically worked on maintaining Uncle Ho's body, with activities scheduled at the end of the third quarter and the beginning of the fourth quarter. By fulfilling these financial obligations, the Vietnamese side met its responsibilities. However, concerning Russia, the permanent expert at the Mausoleum reported that, starting from the second quarter, the expert's family had not received their salary. Despite efforts, there was no information regarding the team leader, Deputy Director Iu.A. Romakov, and the group of medical experts who were expected to arrive in Vietnam at the end of August with the special solutions and supplies ordered the previous year. Facing this situation, the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command conducted an inspection of all special chemical materials under its management, ensuring they met current usage standards. Fortunately, the inspection revealed that the quantity of special chemical materials met the required standards for the production of medicine for Uncle Ho's body. In response to the circumstances, a Party Standing Committee meeting was convened to discuss and issue a resolution guiding the unit in carrying out annual renovations. During discussions with the two permanent medical experts present, they expressed concern and suggested postponing the renovation until the arrival of the expert team led by Deputy Director of Center Iu.A. Romakov from the Moscow. However, it was emphasized that all elements for periodic renovations were in place, the renovation plan had received approval from superiors, and the only missing component was the arrival of Professor Iu.A. Romakov's delegation. As the timeline for the delegation's arrival was uncertain, it was decided to proceed with the planned renovation, viewing it as an opportunity for the two permanent experts and Vietnamese officials and doctors to showcase their abilities and professional qualifications. According to the established plan, on September 03, 1992, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum began a two-month closure for periodic renovation work.

Thanks to the leadership's attention and support, as well as cooperation from various ministries and agencies, the unit successfully completed the mission. President Ho Chi Minh's body were properly cared for, and the equipment was well-maintained. On November 03, the Mausoleum reopened to welcome visitors from Vietnam and abroad.

The two major renovations in 1991 and 1992 were successfully completed despite the absence of technical assistance, providing a sense of relief and encouragement to the officers, soldiers, and workers of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command, fostering a spirit of excellence. However, challenges persisted as early as 1993, with the crucial solutions and chemicals needed for the long-term care and preservation of Uncle Ho's body yet to be received. In preparation for the upcoming significant project, a bold proposal emerged: the Mausoleum Management Board should establish a direct relationship with the Moscow Biomedical Research Center rather than going through the Russian State, as is the current practice. Such a direct relationship would offer numerous advantages, allowing the unit to tap into the multifaceted assistance of Russian scientists and educators who have been close friends and collaborators for many years. However, the question loomed: would the Russian State agree to such a direct relationship? Preserving bodies for an extended period is a closely guarded state secret, and they manage it rigorously. Recognizing the gravity of the issue, the Mausoleum Management Board collaborated with Comrade Vu Khoan, then Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, to gain a deeper understanding of the Russian situation and seek advice on managing the relationship between Vietnam and Russia at that time. On November 25, 1992, with permission from the Prime Minister, a delegation consisting of four individuals – Senior Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Quang Tan, Head of the Mausoleum Management Board cum Commander; Lieutenant Colonel Vu Van Binh, Deputy Director of Institute 69; Captain Pham Quoc Khanh, Leader of the Special Equipment Team; and Major Pham Van Quang, Head of the Foreign Affairs Department - departed for Moscow. The objectives of the trip were to carry out various tasks.

• Firstly, try our best to make payments to Soviet Union, ensuring sufficient supply for the maintenance preparation in 1993. Seeking help from Soviet experts with good networks, who used to work in Vietnam, purchasing certain special materials, especially the lighting system for glass coffins in case we were almost running out the lights.
• Secondly, it neccessitaed the need to comprehend Russian situation, establishing a cooperative relationship which allowed easy access and easy cooperation to Moscow Biomedical Research Center.

The trip was beyond our expectation, thanks to Deputy Prime Minister Phan Van Khai's directive to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, facilitating all favorable conditions for the delegation. Upon landing, our delegation promptly completed the required documents at the airport, receiving a warm welcome at the Embassy guest house. The Moscow Biomedical Research Center designated Professor Iu.A. Romanov to greet the delegation. The following day, Ambassador Ho Huan Nghiem conducted a working session with the delegation, providing insights into the situation in Russia at that time. The delegation, in turn, reported on their mission during the trip and the challenges faced in maintaining Uncle Ho's body after the cessation of dialogue with the Soviet Union. Comrade Ho Huan Luyen, with many years working in Russia and having previously held a position at the State Planning Office (Ministry of Planning and Investment), he had shared valuable insights with the delegation. Comrade Nguyen Van Lam, an embassy officer, was selected as the primary part of Mausoleum's work, accompanying the delegation during their interactions with the Moscow Biomedical Research Center. Of the delegation members, only co-head of the Foreign Affairs Department, Pham Van Quang, had previous experience in the Soviet Union; the remaining three comrades were stepping into the once "mysterious" area for the first time.

During their visit to the Moscow Biomedical Research Center, Associate Professor, Doctor X.V. Tomasevic, Secretary of the Center's Scientific Council and an expert who had previously worked in Vietnam during the war, welcomed the delegation. Although familiar with each other, this reunion evoked mixed emotions, tinged with a sense of sadness, fear, and inhibition, perhaps because Soviet Union had been the old days.

Associate Professor invited the delegations to the room of Professor, Academician of Academy of Sciences of the Soviet Union, X.X. Debob – Center Director The room hosted a gathering of Deputy Directors, Deans of Faculty, and key specialized scientists holding leadership positions at the Center. The meeting commenced after a few minutes of intimate greetings, where the Head of the Mausoleum Management Committee cum the Commander briefed them on President Ho Chi Minh's activities during a tumultuous period of global political events. The difficulties faced by Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum had led to the Russian side not implementing drug control in the 1991-1995 Agreement, especially the non-delivery of special chemicals. The determination of the Party and people of Vietnam to preserve President Ho Chi Minh's body and the contributions of Russian scientists in assisting Vietnam over the past two decades were reiterated. Vietnam expressed its wish to continue receiving help from the Center's scientists through a direct treaty between the Mausoleum Management Board and the Center. The agreement's analysis and the effective results it would bring to both sides were thoroughly discussed during the lengthy meeting. Everyone agreed that the Center should cooperate directly with the Mausoleum Management Board. Some comrades proposed that the Center's direct cooperation should extend beyond preserving the body of President Ho Chi Minh to include advice on preserving Lenin's ideology. Simultaneously, the Center had the conditions to overcome current difficulties. However, Russian scientists are contemplating whether Russian law permits such an arrangement. The Academician - Director of the Center, after moments of thoughtful silence while continuously lighting one heavy Russian cigarette after another, slowly stood up and expressed, "Regarding the opinions shared by the Head of the Management Board of Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, I've listen carefully and have no objections. It's evident that if we enter into a direct cooperation agreement with Vietnam, both sides will benefit. But, dear comrades, allow me to share that, at over 70 years old, I prefer not to confront potential challenges in my remaining time in this world..." The entire office fell silent, and the first working day concluded with a weighty and tense atmosphere.

In the following working day, the delegation arrived at the assigned agency to continue implementing the 1991-1995 Agreement that the Soviet Union had signed with Vietnam. They disclaimed responsibility and didn't explain why they didn't send the special chemicals, purchase flight tickets, or pay for the experts to work at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Despite having sent payments for all these expenses early on, they were presented with a substantial amount to repay based on their new demands. The entire working session was shrouded in an atmosphere of lack of goodwill, as concluded by the delegation upon leaving.

The dinner that night for the delegation was the usual instant noodles mixed with pork floss brought from Vietnam. Sensing the tension among the working group, colleagues Vu Van Binh and Pham Van Quang stood in line to buy beer and added some chopped small Thai onions, claiming it was a bit of nutrition in lieu of vegetables. Everyone praised the taste. However, the tense atmosphere of that day's work continued to linger, and concerns about the outcome of the delegation's first trip to the Russian Federation persisted.

In the following days, arrangements were made for the delegation to tour the entire research facility, access the files, and study the research that had been done to preserve the body of Ho Chi Minh. The delegation could partially grasp the immense volume of work done by the highly skilled scientists at the Center. Simultaneously, they were informed that there would be numerous tasks to tackle in the coming time. The guiding principle of "Direct cooperation with the Soviet Union" resonated in the minds of everyone in the delegation.

As per the plan, the final working day of the delegation at the Center arrived. The Head of the Mausoleum Management Board once again raised the issue of the cooperation mechanism between the Mausoleum and the Center. However, similar to previous discussions, the Director, a corresponding member of the academy, reiterated the reasons for refusing. The negotiations were reaching a deadlock when Academician V.A. Bukop, the Director of the Institute for Research and Production of Medicinal Herbs, who was directly in charge of the Center, arrived. Academician X.X. Debop introduced the delegation and reported the results and challenges of the conference. After listening and understanding the delegation's aspirations, Academician V.A. Bukop responded, "Russian law now allows it. The comrades should negotiate and sign a direct cooperation agreement with Vietnam." After the Director's speech, everyone was elated because it was the sincere desire of both delegations. Professor, Academician V.A. Bukop had previously held the position of Minister of Pharmaceutical Industry in the Soviet government. When the Soviet Union underwent reforms, he returned to work as the Director of the Institute for Research and Production of Medicinal Herbs. A broad-minded, dynamic, and decisive person, he helped the delegation of the Mausoleum Management Board and the Center overcome obstacles. In the years following, when Professor, Academician X.X. Debop passed away, he took on the role of the Center Director. His adept guidance in scientific research collaboration between the units and scientists of the Center yielded significant results.

According to the opinion of Professor, Academician V.A. Bukop, the next day, the Center drafted a cooperation agreement between the Mausoleum Management Board and the Moscow Biomedical Research Center for the period up to 1995, as well as additional contracts and supplements for both parties to discuss.

At 2:00 PM on December 28, 1992, in the office of the Center, the signing ceremony of the direct cooperation agreement between the Mausoleum Management Board and the Moscow Biomedical Research Center was conducted. This event marked the beginning of a new era, surpassing the difficulties and challenges to continue advancing with a high level of self-reliance and determination towards mastering science and technology to serve the sacred mission of preserving the beloved body of President Ho Chi Minh.

The Soviet Union's assistance to Vietnam in preserving the body of President Ho Chi Minh during the 1991-1995 period had now receded into the past, making way for 14 years of direct cooperation between the Moscow Biomedical Research Center and the Mausoleum Management Board. However, the turbulent days of challenges in the early years of the late 20th century are still vivid in my memory - the person entrusted with the position of the Head of the Mausoleum Management Board and concurrently the Commander of the Guard Command of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum will never forget.

I write this article on the occasion of the 14^th anniversary of our direct cooperation. On this occasion, I would like to express special sentiments and deep gratitude to Professor, Academician X.X. Debop, who joined me in signing the agreement that marked the beginning of a new era. Unfortunately, his wish to return to Vietnam once more could not be fulfilled due to health reasons, and a few years later, he passed away. Professors Yu. A. Romats, I.N. Mikhailov, L.D. Girepikhop, who actively supported the direct cooperation agreement, have also departed this world. The people of Vietnam, especially the Mausoleum High Command, will always remember these comrades. The achievements of the years that followed will forever be associated with their names.

A RESOLUTION OF INDEPENDENT AND AUTONOMOUS WILL

 

Colonel DO VAN KHOAN

Former Secretary of the Party Committee, Deputy Commander of Politics

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

In December 1980, after completing the supplementary cultural course of the Ministry of National Defense, I was assigned to Unit 969 - the unit responsible for safeguarding the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. I was deeply moved and thought, "This is a great honor and an incredibly heavy responsibility that I had never dared to imagine."

Within the unit, I took on the role of Head of Propaganda Division - Political Department, living and working in a close-knit environment with experienced senior comrades who provided valuable support. With the backing of various agencies, units, and dedicated party members, I successfully fulfilled my tasks, gradually being appointed to positions such as Deputy Chief, Chief of Political Department, and Deputy Commander of Politics. The Party trusted me with roles in the Party Committee and Standing Committee and as the Deputy Secretary cum Party Committee Secretary of Unit 969.

During my more than three terms as the Party Secretary, I contributed to Standing Committee and Party Committee of Unit 969, advising numerous important resolutions related to the leadership of the mission to preserve the body of President Ho Chi Minh. However, the most profound impact on me was Resolution No. 150 issued by the Standing Committee regarding the leadership of the mission. This resolution was forward-looking, closely aligned with reality, and demonstrated the spirit of independence, self-reliance, and the strong determination to safeguard President Ho Chi Minh's body.

By 1986, after almost two decades of collaboration with the Soviet Union, our medical and technical staff had matured considerably. They were adept at regularly mastering techniques, utilizing established methods to monitor developments on the corpse, operating technical equipment, and ensuring a sterile environment. Our team demonstrates the capability to handle complex situations arising from war, floods, or unpredicted circumstances.

However, numerous problems and obstacles persisted. Despite our nearly 20-year partnership with the Soviet Union, they maintain absolute secrecy about chemicals, preservation techniques, and never shared the test results with us. Their laboratory’s test results had never been revealed, making us were completely clueless about the preserving human techniques.

Furthermore, in scientific research, we faced shortages of equipment, chemicals, specialized personnel, and a cohesive scientific rationale to explain phenomena and eliminate factors affecting the body.

At that time, the implementation of Resolution No. 07 and later Resolution No. 27 faced difficulties. Comrade Nguyen Hong Quang, Deputy Commander of Politics, was a seasoned cadre who actively participated in two resistance wars against French colonialism and American imperialism. Holding various positions, he possessed extensive experience in establishing retirement units. Shortly thereafter, comrade Luong Soan, a pre-uprising officer with a history of involvement in both wars and early contributions to the construction of Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, passed away. In his professional life, he was known for being a dedicated officer with a strong sense of responsibility. Among his teammates, he maintained close and sincere relationships. To his family, he was a loving husband and father deeply devoted to his wife and children. Despite the challenges faced during the subsidy period, he never exploited his position for personal gain. His passing left a void in the Party Committee and the unit, leaving officers, employees, and soldiers in a state of profound grief.

Following this, the Standing Committee and the High Command underwent restructuring. Comrade Nguyen Van Tuong assumed the role of Commander - Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee; I took on the position of Deputy Commander of Politics – the Party Committee Secretary; Comrade Duong Duc Thac became the Head of Political Department - a member of the Standing Committee. The newly formed Standing Committee promptly convened to discuss the medical tasks at hand. A major focus was on providing advice, making proposals, and submitting reports to the Standing Committee of the Central Military Party Committee, urging the issuance of a thematic resolution concerning the medical responsibility of preserving Uncle Ho's body. This resolution was deemed essential to serve as a robust foundation and support for the unit. The Commander took the lead in preparing the necessary documents for submission to the Standing Central Military Party Committee.

During the Standing Central Military Party Committee meeting, comrade Tuong and I were invited to attend and directly hear the profound opinions of key figures such as Comrades Le Duc Anh - Deputy Secretary of the Central Military Party Committee and Minister of National Defense; Comrade Nguyen Quyet - Director of the General Political Department; and Comrade Doan Khue - Chief of the General Staff. The comrades reiterated that the cause of preserving Uncle Ho's body held immense importance with both national and international implications. It symbolized the sentiments and beliefs of compatriots, soldiers nationwide, and international friends towards Uncle Ho, the Vietnamese people, and the socialist regime. The Standing Committee of the Central Military Party Committee and the Ministry of National Defense expressed their trust and continued to assign significant responsibility to the Party Committee and the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

On February 25, 1988, Resolution No. 50 of the Standing Central Military Party Committee regarding the execution of the task of preserving the body of President Ho Chi Minh was officially released. Subsequently, the Party Committee of Unit 969 promptly convened an extraordinary conference on March 17, 1988, to thoroughly comprehend and affirm their determination to successfully fulfill this special political task.

In accordance with the policy and direction outlined by the Standing Central Military Party Committee, the Standing Party Committee of Unit 969 was tasked with expeditiously preparing well-thought-out and meticulous resolutions. These resolutions were aimed at providing clear and stringent guidance, directing the Party in carrying out the crucial responsibility of preserving Uncle Ho's body.

On November 15, 1988, the Unit 969 Party Committee held a conference where invited comrades, including Nguyen Van Tham - Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff, Nguyen Quang Tan - Technical Chairman, and several other leading officers of Institute 69, listened to Comrade Nguyen Gia Quyen, Deputy Commander, reporting on the mission of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body.

This conference addresses significant issues not only domestically but also internationally, particularly emphasizing the nation's commitment to preserving the safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body and maintaining the special solidarity with Soviet experts. All participants raised their oppinion in the voice of passion and activeness.

Comrade Nguyen Quang Tan affirmed, "The science of preserving human bodies is an expertise exclusive to the Soviet Union. Despite not being officially shared with us, nearly 20 years of direct collaboration should allow us to comply our understanding, achievements, shortcomings, and areas for improvement. This forms the basis for our discussions and future orientations."

Comrade Nguyen Van Chau stated, "If that technique is transferred to us, all the best efforts should be made, ensuring a seamless operation with a determination and decisiveness. This political is our mission, not for the future generations to come. Scientific research as a dedicated research institute was neccesitated to be conducted, facilitating the chance of success. This involves effective training for leading and specialized cadres, along with reporting to superiors to ensure consistent resource allocation."

The concerns expressed by the scientists resonate with the Standing Committee. The Commander and I engaged in numerous discussions, actively preparing all necessary factors. We carefully assessed the medical work situation, conducted scientific research, and boldly proposed appropriate policies and measures.

On March 09, 1989, the Standing Party Committee of Unit 969 convened its final session. After a meticulous analysis of the current situation, the conference acknowledged that, while the achieved results represent only the initial step towards the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body, they are nonetheless crucial accomplishments with both scientific and practical significance. In addition to the guidance from above and your assistance, we have independently established the foundational infrastructure for a body preservation research institute in a tropical climate. Our research focuses on the effects of various factors, including medical, biological, chemical, and physical factors, as well as techniques for embalming and preserving corpses under specific conditions in Vietnam. We have successfully trained a proficient team capable of technical operations and handling the available equipment.

On March 09, 1989, the Standing Party Committee of Unit 969 held its final session. After a thorough analysis of the situation, the conference unanimously concluded: In comparison to the long-term preservation requirements of President Ho Chi Minh's body, the achieved results were just a beginning. However, scientific and practical implications had been successfully absorbed, making a significant milestone in history. Alongside the leadership and guidance from above and Soviet assistance, we proactively established the initial foundation of the Institute for researching the impact of various factors, including medical, biological, chemical, and physical aspects, on preserving the body under specific conditions in Vietnam. A group of skilled members of personnel in technical operations, with the ability to operate the equipment at our disposal.

Based on the evaluation, the Standing Committee defined the oriented solutions: The healthcare task of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body is top priority of entire Command. Institute 69, as the specialized unit, is directly responsible for the task, collaborating with the Soviet Union in producing preservative substances and undertaking scientific research. It also serves as an advisory body to assist the Party Committee, led by the Standing Committee and Commander, in directing the long-term healthcare task.

It is necessary to continue leveraging the comprehensive support from the Soviet Union, coordinating with experts to carry out the preservation task actively. We must actively research and acquire complete knowledge of technical procedures, material conditions, aiming to have the capability to preserve the body in case of disruptions due to war or flooding…

After three years of meticulous and democratic preparations, utilizing the collective intelligence of the entire Party Committee, with the Standing Committee at the center, along with the Party Committee of Institute 69 and the team of officials leading the healthcare and scientific and technical work, Resolution No. 50 of the Central Military Party Committee paved the way. Thus, Resolution No. 150 gained vitality, guiding the Party Committee and the unit to assert their independence, self-reliance, and ascend as masters in the noble mission of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body.

On March 16, 1989, Resolution No. 150 on the leadership of the healthcare task for preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body was issued, disseminated, thoroughly implemented at all levels of the Party Committee and the unit, with specific work contents.

The investment and upgrade strategy for Institute 69 to complete the special political task was directed by the Ministry of National Defense through Decision No. 324/QĐ-BVL on May 17, 1990. The new organizational structure of Institute 69 consisted of a Director and suitable departments for the mission: Managing all healthcare work related to the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body; developing a long-term research strategy, determining research plans for each stage; managing scientific research activities and organizing research projects at various levels from local to state level.

Simultaneously, the Institute also focused on training a team of scientifically qualified and experienced personnel, investing in modern equipment. Institute 69 actively trained officers, successfully completing numerous scientific research projects. Dozens of officers and staff were sent to Russia for further studies, and many achieved doctorates, master's degrees, and second-degree specializations. This force made significant contributions to the outstanding completion of the mission to preserve President Ho Chi Minh's body safely.

Looking back at those years, a very short period in the career of long-term preservation and absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body, there were many complex changes that highlighted the special importance for the unit. With the leadership and guidance from above, the Party Committee and the unit had the correct orientation and high determination to overcome all difficulties and challenges in the transitional phase. They opened a new turning point on the path of independence, self-reliance, self-strengthening, actively innovating, and taking charge of the long-term mission of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body for current and future generations to visit indefinitely.

TRANSFORMING CHALLENGES INTO OPPORTUNITIES FOR STEADY GROWTH.

 

 Colonel VU VAN BINH

Deputy Commander

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

After completing the postgraduate program in the Czechoslovakia on January 12, 1990, I returned to Vietnam, carrying reflections on witnessing the collapse of socialist regimes in various countries: Poland, Germany, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, and later, Romania. My hope was always that the Soviet Union, the stronghold of the socialist revolution, would be a stable support for the gradual development of socialism in Eastern European countries. However, my hope did not come true. In 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed, and a socialist system crumbled right in the homeland of Lenin – the home to the great October Revolution.

This event profoundly affected the Vietnam-Soviet relations, particularly the operations at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the relationship between the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command and the Lenin Mausoleum in the long-term preservation of Uncle Ho's body.

Since 1969, the Soviet Union consistently sent three medical experts to Vietnam to directly oversee the task of preserving Uncle Ho's body. Even during the years of war against the United States, these experts stayed with us in solidarity, carrying out this sacred mission. In 1975, thanks to the fraternal assistance of the Party, the State, and the people of the Soviet Union, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was inaugurated at Ba Dinh Square. The medical preservation task was facilitated, and the political and cultural significance of the mausoleum was fully exploited.

However, from early 1992, there was a change in the responsibility for preserving Uncle Ho's body. The Soviet medical expert group permanently stationed in Vietnam was reduced from three to two. Then, on March 04, 1992, Comrade P.I. Phomenko, a medical expert, requested to return home ahead of schedule, leaving only Comrade I.N. Kononukhin. This was unusual as, during the mission to help us preserve Uncle Ho's body, the Soviets adhered to the principle of collective work, never working with us with only one person. Subsequently, many times they did not come directly to check the status of Uncle Ho's body after the end of visiting sessions. From March 14, 1992, they did not come directly, only exchanging information over the phone, stating, "Now, we no longer work with Vietnam; you must handle it yourselves."

Faced with this situation, we became more aware of the need for independence and self-sufficiency. We had to strive harder to master the technology, filling the void caused by the interruption of support from Soviet medical experts. Although this is a science that encompasses many different fields, everyone understood the essential role of the preservation solution that the Soviet experts held at the mausoleum and regarded as their national secret, which we respected. Therefore, we wanted to encourage them to transfer this solution to us for self-management. Through diplomatic methods with the General Department of Technology under the Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations of the Russian Federation, on March 17, 1992, two experts from the General Department of Technology came together with Major General Nguyen Van Tuong to directly inspect the solution at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. After this inspection, Comrade X.A. Kravchenko, Head of the General Department of Technology, Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations of the Russian Federation, issued a directive to hand over this solution to Vietnam.

 Seizing this favorable opportunity, on March 19, 1992, an important meeting was held at our unit, presided over by Lieutenant General Tran Hanh, the Deputy Chief of the General Staff. The participants included: Major General Nguyen Van Tuong - Commander, Comrades from the Standing Party Committee, comrades Do Van Khoan - Party Secretary, Nguyen Quang Tan - Deputy Party Secretary, Duong Duc Thac - Standing Committee member; and Institute 69: Colonel Do Van Dai - Director, Senior Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Van Chau - Party Secretary and Deputy Director, and Major Vu Van Binh - Deputy Director. The conference mainly focused on how to receive the chemicals for preserving Uncle Ho's body, transfered by the Soviet experts. Despite having numerous ideas and opinons, the majority of the participants unanimously wished that the transfer from the Soviet Union would come true. However, some argued that experts working at Lenin Mausoleum Institute would have been unhappy if transfers had implemented, negatively impacting the long term preservation of Uncle Ho’s body. It was needless to state that even though there were some controversies, everyone was just making their best to reach the common goal, the goal of being independent and self-reliant in long term preserving Uncle Ho’s body.

Commrade Tran Hanh genuinely stated: “If I was a commander, having around 500 liters of chemicals for preserving Uncle Ho’s body in stock would be nice.” The simple yet remarkable speech represented for the unanimous conclusion of the conference.

On March 20, 1992, at 9:00 AM, the solution handover, as instructed by Comrade X.A. Krasnov. The Russian Federation's representatives at the handover conference included Comrade V.D. Onisenco, acting plenipotentiary representative of the General Department of Technology, Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations, and Comrade X. V. Chu-rokin, Chief Engineer of General Department of Engineering, Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations, with the presence of Comrade Iu.N. Cononukhin, a permanent medical expert at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

On the Vietnamese side, the participants were Major General Nguyen Van Tuong, Head of the Mausoleum Management Board, and Commander of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command; Colonel Do Van Dai, Director of Institute 69; Senior Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Van Chau, Party Committee Secretary and Deputy Director of Institute 69, along with Major Vu Van Binh, Deputy Director of Institute 69.

This event of handing over the solution to Vietnam was a significant moment in the process of preserving Uncle Ho's body. It did not change the owner of the preservation solution but, in essence, affirmed the responsibility of the Management Board of the Mausoleum and Vietnamese medical experts in implementing the medical preservation mission of Uncle Ho's body. At the same time, it established a more solid basis for us to advance and master this technology.

Immediately on March 20, 1992, Major General Nguyen Van Tuong, the Head of the Mausoleum Management Board cum Commander, sent a thank-you letter and notification to Comrade X.X. Debop, Director of the Lenin Mausoleum. The letter stated clearly: "Firstly, I would like to express deep gratitude for your precious assistance to the work of preserving President Ho Chi Minh's body over the past years.

On this occasion, I would like to inform you that on March 20, 1992, according to the decision of Comrade A.A. Kravchenko, Head of the General Department of Technology, Comrade V.D. Onisienko, the Plenipotentiary Representative of the General Department of Technology in Vietnam, handed over the entire existing solution at the site to Vietnamese doctors. While awaiting your experts to arrive, Vietnamese doctors have been preparing and using the solution, and maintaining it according to the prescribed regime.

In the current situation, despite many changes, we still desire to cooperate closely with you to ensure the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body on a mutually beneficial basis. This cooperation can be conducted through the General Department of Technology or directly with the Lenin Mausoleum on issues of mutual interest.

For now, we request you to urgently send Comrade V.L. Kozensep and I.V. Matveichuk to Vietnam to prepare for sending two experts to assist with the regular maintenance work this year, for a duration of 45 days, starting from September 03, 1992. Please also prepare the necessary supplies and chemicals for this work. For Comrade X.X. Debop, we invite him to Vietnam not only to assist us as a consultant but as an honored guest. Regarding the time, we suggest that he arrange it for convenience, but it would be best around the end of September 1992."

After receiving the solution, on March 23, 1992, the Management Board submitted Report No. 38/BQLL to the Prime Minister, clearly stating: "We have received the solution aided by the Soviet Union without reimbursement according to the 1986-1990 plan, which was considered as their property. Although receiving the handover, continuous cooperation with the Lenin Mausoleum should be still maintained. This issue was previously discussed with comrades Tran Hanh and Nguyen Nam Khanh internally."

Upon the recommendation of Commander, on March 30, 1992, two medical experts, V.L. Kozensep and I.V. Matveichuk, came to Vietnam to assist us in the regular preservation task of President Ho Chi Minh's body. However, by April 03, 1992, Comrade Chief V.L. Kozensep suggested that we continue to request the preservation solution as before. Comrade Do Van Dai explained to him about the legal aspects of transferring the solution between the Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations of the Russian Federation and the Management Board. They showed understanding and continued to help us carry out the mission.

Although the difficulties regarding experts seemed to have passed, it turned out unexpectedly. The large-scale production of the preservation solution in September 1992, led by the key expert I.A. Romats faced delays. The solution could not be transported from Moscow to Vietnam to serve the periodic maintenance task. Faced with this situation, Comrade V.L. Kozensep proposed delaying the production until Comrade I.A. Romats arrived. Comrade Do Van Dai, the Director of Institute 69, consulted with the Head of Institute, reporting to the High Command about the determination to carry out the large-scale production according to the approved plan. This suggestion was approved by the High Command, and in practice, it proved to be the right decision, affirming the new maturity of Vietnamese healthcare professionals.

Afterward, the next two scheduled visits of Russian medical experts did not take place as planned, from April 14 to May 26, 1993, and from November 23, 1993, to April 22, 1994.

Despite these disruptions, whenever new groups of experts came, after their evaluations, they consistently noted, "The state of President Ho Chi Minh's body is very stable, and the healthcare tasks carried out by Vietnamese experts are excellent." The Russian experts were surprised at the rapid progress of Vietnamese healthcare professionals.

Therefore, the transfer of the preservation solution for us to manage independently was a significant opportunity, providing favorable conditions for us to boldly and firmly advance during difficult times and challenges.

To achieve success, we must first acknowledge the insightful guidance of senior leaders. As early as 1969, when the Soviet Union agreed to help us with the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi, the highest-ranking Party and State leaders had instructed the officials involved in this task that, " We are truly appreciated for our friends assiatance, but remember that Uncle Ho belongs to us, our job is to master this task ourselves." This simple yet straightforward guidance showed a consistent and effective direction on the journey of preserving Uncle Ho.

The strategic and appropriate guidance from the High Command has facilitated strong trust for healthcare professionals of Institute 69 to confidently carry out their professional tasks, even when there were only three medical personnels at the start. The scientific staff of Institute 69 boldly conducted research with intense passion, despite the lack of documents, technical equipment, and numerous daily challenges. Furthermore, they had to work "in silence," a term frequently used in the past by the High Command to describe this unique healthcare task. Additionally, effective coordination within the Ministry of National Defense, with support from various units within the High Command, created a powerful collective force that overcame all difficulties and challenges. This effective coordination extended to collaboration with scientific institutions and scientists during different periods, including exemplary units such as Military Hospital 108, Military Medical Academy, and the Testing Institute of the General Department of Military Medicine. Notable individuals who made significant contributions to the preservation task include Dr. Dang Hanh Khoi, Director of the Army Medical Department, Dr. Nguyen Hung Phuc, Deputy Director of the Military Medical Academy, and Comrade Le Dinh Ly, Party Secretary of Military Hospital 108.

Imagine what would have happened if we had not been proactive and innovative since 1969, relying solely on external assistance. Facing disruptions in expert visits and solution transport in 1991, how would we have coped? Would President Ho Chi Minh's body be in the safe hands as today? I believe that this endeavor significantly contributed to establishing the tradition of the High Command of the Ministry of National Defense - the Unit of the Armed Forces in the new period: loyalty, integrity, unity, self-reliance, and initiative.

MEMORIES OF A TRIP

 

Colonel DANG NAM DIEN

Deputy Political Commissar cum Head of Political Department

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

At the end of May 2003, a delegation of officials from the Mausoleum Management Board set off for the Russian Federation to work with the Moscow Biomedical Research Center. The domestic delegation consisted of five members: Major General Nguyen Quang Tan - Head of the Mausoleum Management Board cum Commander of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command; Colonel Lai Van Hoa - Director of Institute 69; Senior Lieutenant Colonel Tran Van Tuan - Deputy Head of Logistics; Associate Professor, Dr. Pham Duy Khue - Deputy Head of the Social Affairs Department, Office of the Government; and myself - Chief of staff. Additionally, there were three local officers studying in Moscow at that time: Dr. Le Cong Bang, Dr. Nguyen Thi Hong Minh, and Pham Van Quang, the Head of the Foreign Affairs Department. Thus, our delegation included 8 people.

The working program with our Russian counterparts focused on three main points: evaluating the results of bilateral cooperation from 2002 to 2003, discussing the cooperation program for 2004, with a particular emphasis on preparing for the 35th-anniversary celebration of safeguarding the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body (1969 - 2004), and conducting the acceptance of Contracts No. 9 and No. 10.

As in previous visits, upon our arrival, representatives of the leadership of the Moscow Biomedical Research Center and officials from the Political Department of the Vietnamese Embassy in the Russian Federation were present at the airport to warmly welcome our delegation.

On the afternoon of the first day in Moscow, at the guesthouse of the Vietnamese Embassy, officers and students sponsored by the Vietnam Oil and Gas Group were also present to welcome our delegation. In a small room of the guesthouse, Major General Nguyen Quang Tan, in a gentle and emotional tone, briefed the officers and students about the unit's situation. He encouraged everyone to study diligently, grasp knowledge firmly, and complete their courses excellently to return to the unit for work. Looking around at the students, Senior Colonel Tan said, "Never before has our unit had as many officers studying in Moscow as it does now. This is a valuable asset that the Party, the State, and the military care about. We must cherish, promote, and appreciate that attention." Everyone promised to diligently fulfill Commander’s instructions.

The next morning, two cars from the Research Center arrived at the guesthouse to pick up our delegation for work. As soon as the cars stopped, the Heads of the Anatomy and Biochemistry departments were already waiting, ready to welcome us into the reception room. Professor V.A. Bukhop, the Director of the Research Center, four deputy directors, heads of departments, and the secretary of the scientific council were all present to greet our delegation. The warm handshakes and sincere hugs among these long-lost friends created a warm, open, respectful, and understanding atmosphere. Before starting the work, Major General Nguyen Quang Tan, as the head of the delegation, introduced each member. When introducing Mr. Pham Duy Khue - Deputy Head of the Social Affairs Department, Office of the Government, who was also part of the delegation, Director V.A. Bukhop couldn't hide his excitement and joy, standing up to shake hands with Mr. Pham Duy Khue. This was a special moment during this working trip – the first time that the leadership delegation of the Mausoleum Management Board had included a representative from the Office of the Government. This event instilled confidence in a long-term cooperation between us and them in the new phase.

At the end of the first day's work, all members of the delegation were excited because there was unanimous agreement on all the proposed programs and work content. Additionally, our Russian counterparts actively raised some principled issues for us to study and prepare for long-term cooperation programs in the coming years.

Back at the embassy guesthouse after a short rest, Commander held a meeting to discuss and exchange thoughts with the delegation members regarding the content of today's meeting. Although we were all part of the same delegation working with the Russian counterparts, when hearing Commander review the discussion and the determination of the leadership before the trip to Moscow, we, the delegation members, gained a more specific and comprehensive understanding of the content of the meeting with the Russians. Commander said, "Our working trip is an effort to convince them to agree to collaborate with us in preparing a special solution in Vietnam." Sitting next to Commander, we understood his thoughts. This was also the guidance of the Standing Committee and the Mausoleum Management Board before the delegation left for Moscow, as well as the hope of generations of unit officers when entrusted by the Party, the State, and the military with the special political mission of long-term safeguarding and ensuring the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body. We also understood that preparing a special solution to preserve the body is akin to preserving human blood; accomplishing this task is indeed a significant success on the unit's path of fulfilling its political mission.

Looking out of the window, Commander suddenly raised his voice, "The results of analyzing the solution between us and the Soviet Union, based on framework of Contract No. 10, will be a scientific foundation, allowing us to cooperate with the Soviet Union in preparing the special solution in Vietnam." After saying this, he turned to Mr. Pham Duy Khue - the Government Office official, to report and explain to the higher authorities about the unit's additional tasks. Our group members were filled with both joy and concern, hoping for a sooner tomorrow to come, implementing the discussions on preserving Uncle Ho’s body with the Soviet Union.

The next morning, as usual, the delegation had breakfast and prepared to leave for work. After everyone finished breakfast, Commander called Lai Van Hoa and Mr. Pham Van Quang to his room for a private discussion. About 20 minutes later, the discussion between Commander and the two men was complete. In front of everyone, Commander assigned the task to Mrs. Nguyen Thi Hong Minh and Mr. Le Cong Bang to double-check the results of the solution analysis, making sure no difference from the results of Russian production, things should be done before the acceptance test. Following this, Commander told he had much thinkings last night, wondersing how to discuss on related issues with the Soviet Union. Comrade Hoa and Mr. Quang were not an exception from Commander. The discussion should be conducted in a very sophisticated way, otherwise no chance for the Russians to accept, even worse, we might be a victim of the misasumption, consider as an ungrateful attitude. A question might be wondered by the Soviet Union: “Why there is no such commercial support from our side? Why no purchases of chemicals during their diffucult time?” Admitting the challenges, Commander decided, this day was not the right time for disscussion, assigined Mr. Hoa and Mr. Quang to get to know them better, whether was there a chance to produce the chemicals here in Vietnam. Sitting next to me, Comrade Pham Duy Khue shouted “Such an amazing decision of humanity”. It sounded like a solution, making everyone smile, and immediately having to work.

The next two working days passed quickly, and the tasks assigned by the Commander to the team of Mr. Hoa, Mr. Quang, Ms. Minh, and Mr. Bang had all been successfully completed. Each member reported their specific tasks to the Commander.

On the fifth day of the mission, the Commander officially raised the issue with the Russian counterparts regarding the collaboration in preparing a special solution in Vietnam, set to take place for the first time in the spring of 2004. Upon hearing our formal request, it seemed that the leadership on the Russian side was a bit surprised, and no one responded immediately. While waiting for a response, the Commander proactively added, "We will prepare the solution in Vietnam, but we will still sign contracts with our Russian counterparts. The only difference is that they will hand over the solution to us in Vietnam."

The Commander's opinion aligned with the thoughts of Professor V.A. Bukhop, the Director of the Research Center. As soon as we raised this issue, he promptly stated, "In principle, we agree to cooperate in preparing the solution in Vietnam. However, we need to wait for the results of the acceptance test for Contract No. 10 to see if the data from both sides are consistent." The Commander's face lit up with joy. Unexpectedly, the Russian response came quickly. Although the solution analysis had not been officially accepted, the comparison between our results and theirs showed almost no deviation. This was a solid condition indicating that they would formally sign a contract to hand over the chemical composition for us to prepare the solution in Vietnam. The working session proceeded swiftly and achieved the desired results.

The following day witnessed the acceptance test for Contracts No. 9 and No. 10. Due to thorough preparations by both parties, the acceptance test proceeded as scheduled and achieved excellent results. The leaders of the Research Center highly praised the collaborative research efforts between Russian experts and Vietnamese doctors. Based on these results, our counterparts affirmed that they were ready to hand over the chemical components and collaborate with us in preparing the solution in Vietnam from the spring of 2004.

Saying goodbye to our Russian counterparts and returning to the guest house, every member of the delegation was filled with excitement. From now on, we would have a solution prepared in Vietnam, eliminating the difficulties and hardships associated with transporting the solution by air. This marked a milestone in the growth and strength of our team of officers and doctors and was also a success attributed to the leadership and guidance of the Standing Committee and the Chief of High Command throughout different periods. Reflecting on this event, my mind returned to significant milestones in the unit's political mission. These included the decision to invest in building T77 as a scientific research base to serve the preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body, the proactive production of medicine during regular maintenance in 1992, the acceptance of the task of making medicine for regular preservation of Uncle Ho's body in 1995, and in 2003, before the 35th-anniversary celebration of safeguarding President Ho Chi Minh's body, the official handover of the essential components of the special solution by our Russian counterparts. Memories along the timeline remained vivid in my mind. Indeed, "the past, present, and future are a continuous flow." The success of today is the result of countless individuals dedicating themselves to the long-term preservation and absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body.

Then, the awaited moment arrived. At exactly 2:00 PM (Moscow time) on June 04, 2003, the last day of the mission, the Director of the Moscow Biomedical Research Center and the Head of the Mausoleum Management Board officially signed the handover protocol for the chemical composition, agreeing to collaborate with our officers and doctors in preparing the special solution in Vietnam in the first quarter of 2004. Thus, the working mission of the delegation of leaders from the Mausoleum Management Board in the Russian Federation concluded successfully.

Three years have passed since then, and Institute 69 and Russian experts have successfully prepared the special solution in Vietnam three times. This outcome further affirms the correctness and foresight of the unit's leadership and the goodwill and enduring tradition of Russian experts towards Vietnam.

SACRED MOMENTS WITH UNCLE HO

 

Colonel PHAM TUAN

Former Deputy Commander - Chief of Staff

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

Each day, thousands of compatriots from all corners of the country and international visitors come to pay their respects at President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Year after year, generation after generation, this continuous stream of people stretches endlessly, mirroring the boundless love and reverence of the Vietnamese people for their beloved President.

In the life of every Vietnamese, there exists a deep-seated desire to visit President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum at least once, to express boundless gratitude and endless affection for the unforgettable leader.

As a privileged officer proudly serving at the Mausoleum since its early days, I vividly remember profoundly moving moments related to the sentiments expressed by national leaders, delegations from both within and outside the country, and people from all walks of life who come to honor our beloved President Ho Chi Minh. These memories are the most profound during my more than 30 years of service at the Mausoleum.

Perhaps, as I hail from the South, I am often assigned to welcome delegations from the South on their visits to the Mausoleum. One of the most touching experiences was welcoming a delegation of Heroic Vietnamese Mothers from the South. My comrades and I in the Reception Committee welcomed these mothers in the most luxurious guest room. Within the delegation, many mothers were over 70 or 80 years old, walking slowly and facing difficulties. The endurance of sacrifice and loss was etched on the weathered faces of these mothers, with only their eyes retaining clarity. We served these mothers with utmost care and attention, hoping to repay, even if just a little, for the immense sacrifices they made for the independence and freedom of the nation. I empathize deeply with the profound pain of these mothers, as I, too, have a mother and three siblings who are martyrs. I spent an entire morning briefing the mothers on the preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body, the construction of the Mausoleum, and President Ho Chi Minh's affection for the people of the South. The most touching moment was when the mothers watched a documentary about the final moments of President Ho Chi Minh's life. Upon leaving the screening room, every mother had teary eyes. One mother, wiping her tears with the hem of her áo dài, choked back tears, saying, "Last night, I couldn't sleep, eagerly awaiting the morning to come to the Mausoleum. Seeing President Ho Chi Minh's image made me miss him terribly!"

I knew these mothers were deeply moved, so before entering the Mausoleum, I encouraged them, saying, "When visiting President Ho Chi Minh, please restrain your emotions. Don't cry so that you can see President Ho Chi Minh more clearly. When you return home, you can share the experience with your children and grandchildren."

On the way to the Mausoleum, I also introduced the mothers to the Mausoleum and the precious contributions of the people from the South in building the Mausoleum. I saw the mothers looking lively, so I was reassured. However, upon entering President Ho Chi Minh's resting place, some mothers shed silent tears, and the entire delegation followed suit. When leaving the Mausoleum, I asked the mothers, "Did you see President Ho Chi Minh clearly?"

Every mother said they couldn't see President Ho Chi Minh clearly. The long-awaited moment of hope and waiting for a lifetime by these mothers had not been fulfilled. Surely, when they returned, they would not be at peace.

Thinking this, I said to my colleagues, "To give the mothers peace of mind, I will lead them to visit President Ho Chi Minh again because they came from afar, are elderly, and this might be their first and last visit to Hanoi and the Mausoleum."

I encouraged the mothers once again, "I will lead you to visit President Ho Chi Minh; this is the last time, so please don't cry to see President Ho Chi Minh more clearly."

After a while, the mothers calmed down and reminded each other not to cry. I led the mothers to tour around the back of the Mausoleum to join the line of visitors. This time, the mothers walked more slowly, allowing them to observe the scenery outside and inside the Mausoleum more closely. Stepping into President Ho Chi Minh's resting place, taking slow and deliberate steps, they attentively looked at President Ho Chi Minh, softly uttering prayers. When leaving the Mausoleum, every mother was joyful, and in my heart, I felt an indescribable joy for having fulfilled the mothers' long-cherished dream.

Upon leaving, the mothers held my hand for a long time, as if reluctant to part. One mother burst into tears and said to me through her tears, "Meeting President Ho Chi Minh, even if I die now, I will die in peace." Although her words were simple, I understood that it was the common sentiment of the entire delegation, and I couldn't hold back my tears either.

***

In September 1989, a delegation of former Southern prisoners visited the North and the Mausoleum. Led by Mr. Le Quang Vinh, the delegation came up with 36 members. The Mausoleum was closed for annual maintenance on this day, but with approval from higher authorities, the delegation was allowed to visit President Ho Chi Minh in the afternoon. This was a great opportunity for these comrades, getting closer to President Ho Chi Minh, stay longer with Uncle Ho, seeing him more clearly. The delegation was honorably welcomed by Commander Nguyen Van Tuong and Presiding officer of the High Command.

During the war, these comrades were young people who participated in revolutionary activities in the South, enduring imprisonment in various U.S-backed jails, undergoing countless severe tortures, and experiencing death and resurrection multiple times. Many comrades were sentenced to death by the enemy (luckily not carried out) before the liberation of the South, and thanks to the reunification of the country, which welcomed them home. Despite being tortured with modern torture methods, these comrades gritted their teeth, maintained their radiant revolutionary spirit, and remained steadfast before the enemy. The iron brave of these prisoners were a night mare of the enemy.

The Commander guided the delegation on a visit to the Mausoleum and the surrounding areas, fostering a friendly and open atmosphere. 14 years after the liberation of the South, these comrades had the chance to visit Uncle Ho's mausoleum, they showed a face of happiness no matter how painful and brutal they had experienced. Welcoming these comrades back from their harrowing experiences, the Commander and our brothers treated the group with an incredibly intimate warmth, akin to family, fulfilling the earnest and fervent wishes they had cherished for many years – visiting Uncle Ho. Similar to the people of the South who faced numerous challenges and had no chance to welcome Uncle Ho for a visit, Uncle Ho was always in their hearts. During the brutal times of enemy torture and imprisonment in tiger cages, they silently invoked Uncle Ho’s name – Ho Chi Minh, maintaining their revolutionary spirit, staying determined to fight victoriously while waiting for the day of meeting Uncle Ho.

The long-awaited day finally arrived. Today, gathering around Uncle Ho, moving with a gentle caution as if afraid of awakening him. They walked silently around the place where Uncle Ho lay, then one by one, they ascended the high wooden platform to get a closer look to Uncle Ho. Uncle Ho's beard and hair were in their eyes of tears. Wishing for a time stretching, having more time with Uncle Ho as their first time being close to Uncle Ho, fulfilling their long-standing desires.

*

* *

When bidding farewell to the delegation of Heroic Vietnamese Mothers and the delegation of former Southern prisoners, I felt a sense of relief and joy, knowing that I had contributed a small part to fulfilling the wishes and dreams of these mothers, brothers, and sisters. However, there are some delegations that have left a lingering sadness in my heart until now. It was on the occasion of the 100^th anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh's birth and the inauguration of the Ho Chi Minh Museum, where thousands of people from across the country and international guests visited the Mausoleum. Among the crowd that day was a delegation of disabled veterans from Hanoi. Most of them were visually impaired veterans, including many couples who were both blind and relied on their children and comrades to guide them. My colleague Truong Dien Bien and I, the Head of the Reception Committee, welcomed the delegation and other veteran comrades, helping them into the Mausoleum. Due to the large size of the delegation, there were not enough wheelchairs, so some brothers and sisters had to walk. Watching them slowly make their way into the Mausoleum, my heart was deeply moved. As the group approached the Mausoleum, veteran comrades gently lifted some of them over the three levels of stairs to enter the room to pay respects to President Ho Chi Minh. These brothers and sisters had sacrificed their blood, bones, and most precious eyes for the independence and freedom of the homeland, for the happiness of the people. Many of them had never met President Ho Chi Minh and had cherished the dream of doing so. When the group reached the resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, the veteran comrades signaled for the delegation to stop and quietly said, "President Ho Chi Minh is in front of you!"

The entire delegation looked up, but there was no sight of President Ho Chi Minh. Everyone stood in silence, allowing tears to flow down their faces. Witnessing this scene, everyone in the room felt a deep sense of sympathy and joined in shedding tears.

As the delegation left, my colleagues and I were left pondering: While everyone entering the Mausoleum had the opportunity to see President Ho Chi Minh, how about our comrades, the visually impaired veterans? Although they couldn't see President Ho Chi Minh, he would always reside in their hearts. These brothers and sisters had come to President Ho Chi Minh with their whole hearts and souls!

* *

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has become a place where the hearts and beliefs of not only the Vietnamese people but also international friends converge. Since its opening to the public, hundreds of national leaders and millions of people from all corners of the globe, representing all skin colors, have visited the Mausoleum. Among the delegations that I had the privilege to welcome and guide into the Mausoleum, one left an incredibly profound impression on me. I distinctly remember, in December 1995, the delegation from the Communist Party and the State of Cuba, led by President Fidel Castro, visited the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Despite the winter weather and the windy atmosphere at Ba Dinh Square, we, the honored individuals receiving the delegation inside the Mausoleum, felt a warm atmosphere. Every Vietnamese person understands the heroic Cuban people and the globally renowned President Fidel Castro. The people of Vietnam and Cuba had a strong bond forged during the revolutionary struggle and the construction of a new life. During the harsh and intense years of the resistance against the United States, the salvation of the nation, President Fidel Castro personally visited and even went to the battlefields. He famously said, "For Vietnam, the Cuban people are ready to sacrifice even their blood."

During today's reception, although we knew the exact time of the delegation's arrival, everyone was eagerly anticipating. When the convoy stopped, President Fidel Castro, in military uniform and his iconic olive-green hat, stepped out of the car. As I approached and stood at attention to greet him, President Castro responded with the formal military protocol. I was pleasantly surprised when President Castro shook my hand, a rare and friendly gesture from a national leader. After that, I guided the delegation into the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum following the solemn ceremony reserved for heads of state. President Castro walked briskly and gracefully. In front of the Mausoleum, the delegation stopped, and President Fidel Castro approached the wreath-laying area to adjust the ribbon on the wreath briefly, a gesture demonstrating respect for President Ho Chi Minh. President Fidel Castro silently entered the room where President Ho Chi Minh lies. In front of President Ho Chi Minh, President Castro raised his hand in salute, then took off his hat, standing silently. No head of state had stood by President Ho Chi Minh for so long. It seemed like President Fidel Castro did not want to leave President Ho Chi Minh. Finally, I took the initiative to invite President Castro to leave. Looking at his expression, I could sense that he was deeply moved, not as agile as when he entered the Mausoleum, but slowly stepped out of the visiting room.

In that sacred moment, President Fidel Castro devoted all his emotions to President Ho Chi Minh and the people of Vietnam.

A rare coincidence is that I am writing these memories on the 80^th birthday of President Fidel Castro. He recently underwent major surgery, shaking the emotions of the people of Cuba, Vietnam, and friends worldwide.

In recounting these memories, I would like to dedicate them to my colleagues involved in the reception as well as to all the officers, workers, and soldiers who tirelessly safeguard and preserve the absolute safety of President Ho Chi Minh's body. This ensures that present and future generations can visit and express their deepest wishes and profound feelings for President Ho Chi Minh, whom we love infinitely.

A VIRTUAL MEETING

 

Colonel TRAN VU TRANG

Former Deputy Head of Political Department

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command.

The small car took us to the VOVNews editorial office. Hanoi was cool and refreshing after the early summer rain. The streets were adorned with flags, banners, and slogans celebrating the victory of Dien Bien Phu, featuring images of Uncle Ho with the troops on the frontline. According to foreign expressions, Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh - Dien Bien Phu is like a magical connection, synonymous for us. For us, the Party and Uncle Ho are the soul of every triumph. So today, walking in the "resounding echoes of Dien Bien's 50 glorious years of history," our hearts are filled with memories of Uncle Ho. In just a few days, we will commemorate the 114th birthday of Uncle Ho, who has been gone for nearly 35 years.

The car stopped at the gate of the Voice of Vietnam Building, 45 Ba Trieu. As arranged, Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoa - Head of Content Department, who had worked with the High Command to organize this exchange, welcomed us into the meeting room of the editorial office.

Comrade Dinh The Loc – Chief of Editor, gave a brief introduction to the newspaper: "VOVNews is the official electronic newspaper of the Voice of Vietnam, the only one with daily radio programs. It is a reputable electronic newspaper with a clear orientation, always providing readers with hot, intellectually rich current affairs information, highly appreciated by readers. Accessing the VOVNews website (http://www.vov.org.vn) every morning for reading or listening has become an indispensable need for many readers inside and outside the country, especially in today's era of information technology.

We discussed and agreed on the principles and main content of the exchange session. With the desire to bring useful insights to readers and listeners inside and outside the country, we will talk about the President's Mausoleum, the deep gratitude of our people, and the admiration of international friends for Uncle Ho.

At 2:00 PM, the online exchange session began. On the computer screen, the text was clear: "We would like to introduce, at 2:00 PM today, May 15, 2004, VOVNews is conducting an online exchange program with Major General Nguyen Quang Tan - Head of the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Management Board. Accompanying him is Colonel Tran Vu Trang - Deputy Head of Political Affairs, President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command. VOVNews invites you to follow, send letters, and call the editorial office to ask questions during the exchange."

I quickly looked around the entire room to visualize the "production technology" of an electronic newspaper. A spacious room, located on the 6^th floor of a large building. From here, you could see Hanoi with its tall buildings and lush green trees. The room housed many modern monitoring and broadcasting devices. Several editors, mostly young, were actively working or engaging in discussions in front of computer screens. Simultaneously, editors and we had to follow and respond to questions displayed on three computer screens in turn.

Immediately after Major General Nguyen Quang Tan, representing the officers, soldiers, and workers who were directly honored to work at the Mausoleum, sent greetings to readers with a challenging question from overseas: Vong Ha, Thi, Ly Chau Hoa, from Germany, asked, "Please let us know, during the process of protecting Uncle's body, which part was the most challenging?"

We responded promptly: "The absolute mission of ensuring the safety and long-term preservation of Uncle's body is an extremely challenging task, unprecedented in Vietnam. Even globally, only the Soviet Union had the technology to preserve the leader's body for people to visit. Especially in Vietnam, with a hot and humid tropical climate, the task becomes even more challenging, especially when our technical conditions are still outdated. Thanks to the attention and guidance of the Political Bureau, the Central Military Commission, the support of the Party and the state of the Soviet Union in the past, directly from their scientists, along with the determined efforts of officers, soldiers, and workers involved in this task, the seemingly insurmountable difficulties have gradually been overcome. Uncle Ho's body has now entered its 35^th year, still being preserved in the best condition. The distinctive features of Uncle Ho during his lifetime are still intact. The Mausoleum is becoming more and more magnificent and clean, welcoming thousands of visitors every day."

Reader Van Mi Hue had a lengthy question: "Preserving Uncle Ho's body is a very burdensome task but also an immensely joyful one. During the wartime, material conditions were very scarce, especially technical means, but you did a miraculous thing in preserving Uncle Ho's body very well. I also had the opportunity to visit the Da Chong, where the preservation work was carried out initially. I saw the specialized vehicle used during that relocation and learned that moving Uncle Ho's body between Son Tay and Hanoi was very difficult. So I want to know more about that move, if you don't mind?"

Tan recounted six years of hardship during the war, with severe shortages of technical materials, to the point where they had to use ice columns instead of air conditioning to ensure the temperature inside the vehicle during the transport of Uncle Ho's body. To maintain secrecy on the march, the unit had to send advance parties to carry materials to fill bomb craters caused by US bombings, ensuring that the vehicle carrying Uncle Ho's body did not shake or jolt. After that, to erase any traces, the soldiers had to dig up and remove the soil, restoring the road to its original state.

The conversation was meaningful, emotionally charged, and sometimes tense due to the novelty of the online exchange format for us.

At this moment, the screen displayed a question from a reader named Huong, without specifying the sending address. The reader wanted to know: "How much funding is needed annually to maintain Uncle's body in the Mausoleum?" Tan turned to me in hesitation: "Should we answer this question?" The editors suggested: If there are uncomfortable questions, you can decline to answer.

In fact, many people are interested in this question, either because they want to understand the project or for another purpose. In the course of my work, dealing with reference materials for ideological work, I have read and noticed that some people have distorted views and misconceptions. There are even reactionary arguments with harmful implications against the construction of the Mausoleum.

I remember one time around 2002, an American journalist requested an interview with the Head of the Mausoleum Management Board. During the interview, several times he repeated questions about the organization of the unit and the costs of preserving the Mausoleum. The Head of the Mausoleum Management Board told the interpreter: "Comrade, translate for him to know that the construction of the President's Mausoleum was based on the sincere wishes and boundless gratitude of our people to our great leaders. The construction was assisted by the Soviet Union and directly by Soviet scientists at no cost, along with the effort of our Party and people. Countless valuable materials were even brought from the South while it was still on war with the U.S. to build the Mausoleum. How much did the Masoleum cost? No number for this. This was our priceless asset.

After a short pause, I suggested that Mr. Tan respond to audiences similar to how he addressed an American journalist. Mr. Tan's response was firm, stating, "President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a project driven by the will of Vietnamese people and its Party. From its construction to ongoing preservation and renovation, the Mausoleum has consistently received contributions and assistance from various parts of the country and international organizations. Of course, it necessitated the funds for preservation, ensuring safe and civilized visits, and enhancing the Mausoleum area's landscape."

In response to a question from Nguyen Thanh Ha about the number of people working at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Management Board, Mr. Tan replied: “The Mausoleum comprises various sections, each assigned different functions and tasks. Under superior guidance, the Mausoleum Management Board strives to devise the most sensible organizational structure, aiming to optimize human resources and minimize addtional costs.”

Tran Anh Tuan from Washington asked:

• Dear Major General, throughout the years dedicated to preserving Uncle Ho's body, what challenges have you faced? Which one stands out as the most memorable incident?

Mr. Tan, despite being a technical officer, accurately addressed a significant political incident in 1991, highlighting the changed political situation in the Soviet Union. He commended the revolutionary spirit of Soviet and Russian scientists was in a temporary pause, along with the efforts of Vietnamese scientists, in quickly overcoming the incident without affecting the long-term preservation of President Ho Chi Minh's body.

The exchange continued to captivate, I was very pround of being one of the honorable personnel, with a mission to carry out the sacred task at Uncle Ho's Mausoleum. A sense of happiness fills my heart as I witness people from all corners of the country, including compatriots far from their homeland, turning their attention to Uncle Ho's Mausoleum with deep respect and gratitude. There is also a keen interest in the guardians of Uncle Ho's Mausoleum. Numerous questions arise, such as: What challenges do Vietnam's climatic conditions pose in preserving Uncle Ho's body? How often do we conduct the preservation of Uncle Ho's body each year? Is it a challenging process? How many visitors come to President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum annually? I live in the South, and this summer, I plan to visit Hanoi. I wish to go to Uncle Ho's Mausoleum. Therefore, I would like to inquire about the recommended day to visit and the necessary procedures to request a visit to Uncle Ho. Apart from Soviet experts, are there any other countries supporting Vietnam in preserving Uncle Ho's body? Etc…

In particular, Hong Hanh from Thanh Xuan, Hanoi, raised a question: "Vietnam had received the significant assistance from Soviet experts in preserving Uncle Ho's body during the war years. So, since Uncle Ho's body was brought to the Mausoleum, will the Soviet Union continue to assist us in this work? Among the experts who contributed to safeguarding Uncle Ho's body, are any still alive today? Do you have plans to organize a meeting with these individuals on the 115th anniversary of Uncle Ho's birth or another occasion?" Mr. Tan responded emotionally, stating, "Many of the experts who played a role in helping Vietnam preserve Uncle Ho's body from the early days are still alive today, including Academician Iu.M. Lopukhin and Professor Iu.A. Romakov, who are now over 80 years old. We hold deep gratitude and respect for those who helped us. These experts were honored with the prestigious title of Hero of Labor by our Party and State, receiving numerous Labor Orders and Friendship Medals. During major holidays, we organize gatherings to express our appreciation. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of preserving Uncle Ho's body, with approval from the Prime Minister, the Mausoleum Management Board collaborated with our country's Embassy in the Russian Federation to invite medical and technical experts who joined their hands in constructition of mausoleum and preservation of Uncle Ho's body for a meeting in Moscow. This event left a positive impression, and Hero of the Soviet Union Gecman Titop made commendable statements about the country of Vietnam and its people."

We were even more touched when we learned that many young people aspire to become soldiers guarding Uncle Ho's sleep. Doan Thai Duyen, a girl from Hanoi asked, "I also want to be a soldier at President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, so what should I do?"

The interest, sharing, and aspirations kept pouring into the editorial office, making the online exchange session last longer than anticipated. In response to this situation, the Editor-in-Chief, who directly monitored and directed the program, agreed to adjust the timing.

After the exchange session ended, we left with joy, pride, and mixed emotions. Through the online exchange, I felt the sincere sentiments of fellow countrymen and international friends toward the long-term preservation of Uncle Ho's body. I realized that the work we are undertaking is an exceptionally noble task. Generations of officials and soldiers like us will take turns standing in the honorable position bestowed by the Motherland, ensuring the everlasting peaceful sleep of Uncle Ho.

UNCLE HO IS WITH US FOREVER

A penmanship by Colonel NGUYEN VIET SON

People's Army Newspaper

In 1975, after the victory on April 30, the completion of the construction of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was a truly significant event that touched the hearts of the entire nation. Now, we know about the efforts to protect President Ho Chi Minh's body from the intense war years, from the day he passed away until his arrival at the Mausoleum. During the anxious six years (1969 - 1975), President Ho's body had to be moved five times to avoid enemy threats and natural disasters. Each relocation of President Ho's body safely was a great achievement of the officers and soldiers of Unit 69, the predecessor of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command, entrusted by the Party and the people to preserve the priceless spiritual heritage of the nation. This was a special and confidential task, and amid all the worries of our military and people at that time, there was an unspoken concern: Where is President Ho Chi Minh, and is his body being safeguarded until the ultimate victory of the country?

In 1972, our Division 308 was fighting in Quang Tri. By the end of the year, the U.S. imperialists were still delaying the signing of the Paris Agreement to escalate the air war into the North. The news of the B-52 bombers dropping bombs on Hanoi made us extremely worried and uneasy. After a briefing on the military situation that day, we recorded the thoughts of many officers and soldiers in various units, many of whom were concerned about protecting President Ho's body in this decisive battle. In May 1975, shortly after the liberation of Saigon, I visited Minh Mang University dormitory to talk with students. Many students anxiously asked me, "Is President Ho Chi Minh's body being well-preserved? When will the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum be inaugurated?" I was surprised and asked, "Did you just find out about this, or have you known since before the liberation of Saigon?"

A quick-witted female student replied, "We've known for a long time. We often listen to Hanoi Radio secretly. We are looking forward to the day when the Mausoleum is completed, so we can go to Hanoi to meet President Ho." This made me understand even more the deep feelings of the youth and students in the South towards their beloved President Ho Chi Minh.

Finally, the long-awaited day for the whole country arrived. On August 29, 1975, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was inaugurated, adding a significant cultural monument to the thousand-year-old history of the civilized capital, Thang Long, Dong Do, Hanoi: the unique One Pillar Pagoda built during the flourishing period of Buddhism in the Ly dynasty. In front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a scene never before seen in Vietnam unfolded - military honor guards dressed in solemn and beautiful uniforms, standing upright and marching with precision during the changing of the guard. Two soldiers, Nong Van Thanh and Nguyen Van Ri, were honored to stand as guards in front of the Mausoleum on the inauguration day. They stood solemnly, eyes straight ahead, holding their rifles firmly without a hint of movement. In front of them, people walked gently, like an endless stream flowing into the Mausoleum.

***

I have had the opportunity to visit the Mausoleum or pass by its area several times. Whether meeting President Ho or just passing by the Mausoleum, upon seeing the lush green grass of Ba Dinh Square, my heart recalls the lyrics of a song by Vien Phuong:

"Every day the sun shines the Mausoleum,

Meeting another red sun inside.

People walk in deep remembrance,

Laying flowers for 79 springs."

There have been numerous works of poetry written about President Ho Chi Minh, each stemming from the deep emotions of artists who were fortunate enough to meet him or have not had the chance to experience that great joy. But at the resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, as a natural reflection, I always remember these verses because the poetic image of Vien Phuong is constantly happening before my eyes: People in colorful clothes moving and swirling around, like a garden of flowers, like a blooming flower. This scene has remained the same from the first day until today.

Right after President Ho's passing, even though the country was still engulfed in the fog of war, the decision to build the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and preserve President Ho's body became the earnest wish of our entire nation and army. People and soldiers nationwide wanted a final resting place for President Ho to partly reflect his contributions and great cause, allowing the present and future generations to come and visit him, pledging to continue the path chosen by the Party and President Ho Chi Minh. Our homeland was then divided into two regions. From the North to the South, everyone remembered President Ho Chi Minh with deep affection. During his revolutionary activities, President Ho had a great desire that remained unfulfilled - to return to Saigon and reunite with the beloved South. The South was always in President Ho's heart, and President Ho was always in the hearts of the people of the South. He said, "The people of the South, each family, each person has their own sorrows. All those sorrows combined are my pain." During the anti-American resistance, President Ho repeatedly proposed to the Political Bureau to arrange for him to visit and encourage our people and troops directly on the Southern front. But seeing that President Ho's health was not guaranteed, the Political Bureau tried every means to postpone that trip. In the spring of 1968, before comrade Le Duc Tho went to work in the South, he came to see President Ho. President Ho earnestly requested to visit the South. Comrade Le Duc Tho had to tactfully refuse, saying that President Ho could only go by air through Phnom Penh. In that case, President Ho needed a passport, and people could easily recognize him because of his beard. President Ho said, "Then shave the beard." Comrade Le Duc Tho replied, "If President Ho shaves the beard, the people in the South won't recognize him anymore." Hearing this, President Ho sat quietly, looking very sad. When parting, President Ho hugged comrade Le Duc Tho, and he couldn't hold back his tears. President Ho Chi Minh's journey to find the country's salvation began on June 05, 1911, aboard a merchant ship named Admiral Latouche Treville, departing from the Nha Rong Harbor. He traveled across Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America, making significant contributions to the "global shock" - the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, the hero of national liberation, and a world cultural figure. No one would have thought that this temporary departure was also the time President Ho bid farewell to Saigon, bidding farewell to the beloved South.

The decision of the Political Bureau to preserve President Ho Chi Minh's body intact and build the Mausoleum at that time was truly a great encouragement for the people in the South, for the whole nation. It transformed pain into strength, determined to "make the Americans leave, make the puppet forces collapse," and achieve complete victory to return to the Mausoleum and meet President Ho. What has happened at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in recent years has proven that the decision to preserve President Ho's body intact and build the Mausoleum was in line with the Party's intentions, resonated with the people's hearts, and was consistent with the traditions of human morality, remembering the roots of the Vietnamese nation. Until the end of December 2006, a total of 32,750,170 people had visited the Mausoleum, including 3,573,309 foreign visitors from 132 countries and 68 international organizations. The country's renewal process achieved important achievements, facilitating the people's travel, and international exchanges developed, resulting in an increasing number of domestic and foreign visitors to the Mausoleum in recent years. On these days, an average of 50 to 70 international delegations, along with thousands of our compatriots of all ages from all over the country, quietly and respectfully line up to visit the Mausoleum. Hanoi, with a history spanning thousands of years and many historical sites, has none that possesses the allure of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Many elderly people from remote rural areas, who have never set foot in the capital, have said to their descendants, "I wish to go to Hanoi to visit President Ho's Mausoleum." For foreigners, many share a common opinion: "If you haven't been to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, you haven't truly been to Hanoi." Even on the days when the Mausoleum is closed to the public (Mondays and Fridays), our compatriots, children, and foreign tourists still walk busy paths in the Mausoleum area to breathe in the fresh air, admire the scenery, and take commemorative photos.

The yellow notebooks kept by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command, stacked into a towering pile, have recorded the sincere and profound thoughts of the people, comrades, and citizens of all ethnic groups across the country, as well as friends from all continents in various languages: Slavic, Latin, sculpture, Sanskrit, and more.

The delegation of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, writes: "We are deeply touched to visit Uncle's Mausoleum. Uncle Ho forever lives in the hearts of the South People. The words here will stay forever in the hearts of the people of Ho Chi Minh City. Visiting Uncle's Mausoleum brings immense love for Uncle. We pledge to study and live by Uncle's example."

The Ethiopian delegation writes: "Visiting Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, we have a deep impression: Ho Chi Minh is not only a great revolutionary figure of the Vietnamese people but also the hope of the African nations as well as other nations struggling to eradicate imperialism from their homelands."

The women's delegation from the United States writes: "We love Vietnam because it has Ho Chi Minh as a leader. His life is the most complete symbol of peace... We consider Ho Chi Minh as the leader of the progressive people of the United States.”

The sentiments of millions who visited Uncle Ho's Mausoleum could be compiled into many volumes. However, this is just a small part compared to the profound and sincere feelings for Uncle Ho, regardless of the changes in history and time.

Once, I met a delegation of Heroic Vietnamese Mothers from the Ca Mau Cape visiting Uncle Ho's Mausoleum. These mothers, all over 70 years old, traveled by car. Despite their middle age and the challenges of a cross-country trip by car, they preferred it over flying. When I asked why, one mother explained: "Traveling by car allows us to explore the country, and visiting Uncle Ho becomes more meaningful."

The eldest person in the group is Mother Nguyen Thi Thanh, who is 73 years old. She lost all of her three sons, who sacrificed in the war of nation liberation and independence. The losses were wordless to describe, making her appearance much older than her actual age. She is tall and slender, with a weary face, foggy hair, and pale skin. When asked, "How was your feelinhgs when visiting Uncle Ho?" her aged eyes instantly dimmed, and tears slowly trickled down her dark, wrinkled cheeks. After a moment, Mother Thanh managed to utter a few words: "Very sad, very touching... I wish Uncle was still alive to witness the reunification of the country, to visit our people in the South, our beloved homeland." Those were the only words Thanh's mother could muster. Her subsequent questions were met with two tears from a mother who had been withered by suffering, seemingly unable to cry again. Witnessing Thanh's mother's tears, my nose suddenly stung, even though I had previously heard many stories from the reception department about the Southern people's deep love for Uncle Ho.

Like dutiful children when their father passes away, the Southern delegations visiting Uncle Ho in the early days of the Mausoleum's opening had many touching moments. Stepping into the reception room, many were already shedding tears. When entering the Mausoleum, the tears flowed even more, and the emotional overflow continued until they left. This was from the South, far away, to Hanoi to meet Uncle Ho, standing by him without being able to clearly see the face of the venerable father.

A female officer from the Department of Labor - War Invalids and Social Affairs of Ca Mau province, who was responsible for leading the mothers, shared with me: "Taking on this task, I felt both happy and worried. Happy because it's my first time coming to the capital, visiting Uncle Ho's Mausoleum. Worried because these mothers are of advanced age, and the road is long and difficult, especially through the mountain pass. But luckily, except for an incident in Ho Chi Minh City, the mothers became healthier as we approached Hanoi. I, too, felt quite tired at times, but the mothers gathered to encourage me: 'Eat more so that when we reach Hanoi, we'll be strong and able to visit Uncle Ho right away.' During our conversation, the leader's eyes sparkled with joy and contained something strange that she hadn't fully understood but had made the Heroic Mothers of Ca Mau reach Hanoi safely and in good health.

People from various regions come here, with each different situation. Hundreds of individuals with hundreds of destinies, each expressing their deep reverence for Uncle Ho -holy yet unpretentious. Some examples are about to be told: Mrs. Nguyen Thi Lan, residing in Hai Phong city, has been visiting Uncle Ho three times a year on specific occasions: Lunar New Year, Uncle Ho's birthday on May 19, and Independence Day, which also was his death anniversary. She has become like a relative to the collective of officers and soldiers on duty, protecting and welcoming both domestic compatriots and international guests visiting Uncle Ho's mausoleum. Mrs. Lan's descendants and relatives frequently join her in these visits, sometimes in sizable groups of up to 50 people, filling a large living room. Mrs. Lan, a person with a unique personality, once shared, "I have no time for temples and pagodas. Going to the pagodas and temples is to worship saints and pray for blessings. Uncle Ho has already been a saint since he was alive, not only recognized by Vietnamese but also the international community. Visiting and worshipping Uncle Ho was enough, allowed our future generation stay focused, making sure they can reap what we sowed. My talk was simple, yet as genuine. 

Mr. Do Viet An from Thai Binh, over a hundred years old, left a lasting impression on soldiers of President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Comamand. Known not only staying in the Mausoleum area but also at the guest house at 37 Hung Vuong and Quan Su Pagoda, many people recognized and served him enthusiastically. Given special incentives by the Department of Labor, War Invalids, and Social Affairs of Thai Binh province due to his age, Mr. An could travel for free. Going to Ha Noi to visit Uncle Ho, he was allowed for free meals and free accomodations at Guest House 37 Hung Vuong, sometimes Quan Su Pagoda was his stop, living in the safe hands of Buddist. Despite his age, he regularly visited Uncle Ho's mausoleum every morning of September 3, since the afternoon of the 02, each member the Reception department reminded us: "Remember tomorrow morning to welcome Mr. An to the Mausoleum to visit Uncle Ho."

As the years pass, streams of people quietly walk into Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, imitating his example to find confidence, tranquility and serenity, to get a deeper comprehension of instrinsic values of life, to love what Uncle Ho loves, to refill the engergy, embarking on his continuous journey. This great activity is accompanied by various political events. Many new recruit units hold ceremonies before their departure, admission ceremonies for union and party members, and delegations from different agencies and enterprises, presenting their achievements at the Mausoleum. The sacred fire from here is transferred to ignite the martial spirit at national and local sports conferences. Even couples, when getting married, visit the Mausoleum to express their remembrance and understanding. Among these couples, one groom, Senior Lieutenant Pham Minh Thanh of the M25 Navy Military Group, postponed his wedding voluntarily as the Mausoleum was not open on their initially planned date, considering offering flowers to Uncle Ho a meaningful and essential task.

President Ho Chi Minh is a great leader of the Vietnamese people and a cherished friend of people worldwide. Alongside thousands of Vietnamese people visiting Uncle Ho's Mausoleum every day, numerous foreign delegations come to Vietnam, paying their respects to Uncle Ho from various countries. Members of the Reception Committee at the Mausoleum, regularly interacting with international guests, have shared many stories that showcase the kindness of friends worldwide, from heads of state to tourists, toward our beloved Uncle Ho.

A few years ago, a sizable group of French veterans visited Uncle Ho's Mausoleum during a holiday, attracting more than 30,000 people. Despite the harsh summer sun and hours of waiting, many in the group displayed remarkable calmness and patience. Apologizing for the delay, one veteran waved his hand and said, "It’s not your fault, the scorching sun in Vietnam is indeed a challenge, but I see a newfound appreciation. Watching the stream of Vietnamese people entering President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, I truly understand the profound admiration of the Vietnamese people for President Ho Chi Minh."

President of the Republic of Austria Franz KleinStift visited Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, seeing the people of all ages and genders come to visit the Great Leader, was deeply moved. The President proposed his desires to shake hands with the Vietnamese people who were visiting. Which words can accurately and fully describe the feelings of this head of state for President Ho Chi Minh?

People from over a hundred countries visit Uncle Ho's Mausoleum not out of curiosity or diplomatic gestures. These distant visitors had some knowledge of Uncle Ho, understood his biography and accomplishments to varying degrees, but all of them expressed deep respect for him through their attitudes, gestures, words, and various expressions of thoughts. There are speeches and meanings of people from different nationalities, at different times visiting Uncle Ho, separated by up to two years, but they are similar. This happened with a German journalist and a female official from Poland. Both guests did not use the word "visit" but the word "pay respects." They argued: To visit is to go to those who have died, to pay respects is to go to those who are alive. President Ho Chi Minh is a great person worthy of being listed among the immortals of humanity. Our guide added: When President Ho Chi Minh was alive, his working days were very tense. In old age, as health declined, between two receptions, he often kept his clothes on and rested for half an hour. His posture, his attire now in the Mausoleum, is modeled after those moments of rest. For us, he lives on, he is resting for a moment. Hearing this, the German guest and the Polish guest, at two different times, both said the same thing: "You are very intelligent, very worthy of being the descendants of President Ho Chi Minh." To earn the praise of the people and international friends, since Uncle Ho's departure, since the opening of the Mausoleum, the officers, soldiers, and those who are fortunate to be close to him have considered the task of preserving Uncle Ho's body, protecting the Mausoleum, and welcoming people to visit as a glorious mission entrusted by the Party, the State, and the people. They have devoted all their energy with the highest voluntary spirit, organizing and executing the work meticulously, accurately, and with the utmost care to preserve Uncle Ho's body. They consider it an invaluable spiritual asset of today and future generations.

MOON SHAPE ON BA DINH SQUARE

Music: Thuan Yen

Poem: Pham Ngoc Canh

Moon rising, oh moon rising,

The square offers a bright sea.

Oh moon, oh moon over Ba Dinh Square,

Expansive, expansive, expansive and sacred (ethnic drum beats).

In Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, resting after each task,

The moon, aware of this, treads lightly (Music).

Like guiding the moon, echoing the ancient Day River, singing under the moon in the forests of Northern Vietnam.

Uncle discusses military matters.

Bamboo wind rustles around the Mausoleum, like guiding a boat (Music).

Oh moon, in the homeland of poetry in Uncle Ho's verses, for generations, I wish to preserve this happiness, oh poetry (Music).

As a filial child embraced by the night of the full moon,

Inviting the beloved moon to step onto the threshold of the Mausoleum.

Inviting the beloved moon to step onto the threshold of the Mausoleum.

Beside the Mausoleum in Autumn

Music and lyrics: Tran Vu Trang*

Beside the Mausoleum, in autumn for many years,

Those who went far, the longing for You never ceases.

The country still has the Party's ideals, the people's love, left for You, who left us.

Oh, sacred will and testament. Your loving words, dear father, always remembered throughout life.

Tomorrow, when I return to the South, how can I forget Your figure, the delicate cloth on the pebble path.

As if You left in the final moment.

Oh, the South in Your heart, the South forever remembers day and night, eagerly awaiting Your visit.

Why did You leave from that day at Ben Ngoc Rong for the children to forever hope.

Oh, even if that river dries up someday, even if that mountain erodes, the people's hearts will never fade.

For countless generations after You, You will always be here.

Oh Vietnam, shining for a thousand years, Ho Chi Minh.

Our father, You live forever with the nation for a thousand years.

Former Deputy Head of Political Department - President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

Guarding the Eternal Sleep

Music and Lyrics: Quang Loi*

Uncle Ho is still there, His voice lifting our steps, comrades standing by Uncle Ho day and night.

Oh, a sparkling star guiding the way, illuminating the path for us.

Bac's image in the hearts of young soldiers.

The brilliant truth of independence and freedom.

We vow to stand by you.

The flower pedestal honoring Uncle Ho, beloved for a thousand lifetimes. Uncle Ho eternally for a thousand autumns. Uncle Ho eternally for a thousand autumns.

Office Department – President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

GUARDING IN THE MAUSOLEUM

Music and Lyrics: Do Van Ly*

Early morning, birds singing in the bamboo grove.

I stand by the Mausoleum, feeling Uncle lying amidst boundless love.

In each of us, there's a sacred feeling by Uncle, overflowing in our souls.

Never-ending thoughts of Uncle, and suddenly, I feel Uncle still smiling.

Oh, the guard duty at the Mausoleum, stirring the soul, I always silently remember. Uncle, silently remembering Your words from the past.

Oh, the guard duty at the Mausoleum, as if the soul is wide open and bright.

Uncle's words are deeply engraved in our hearts.

I pray for a lifetime of loyalty by Your side, oh Uncle, Uncle, oh Uncle.

*Political Department - President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum High Command

 

President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Insiders’ Memories

(Second Edition)

Chapter 1

Publication: Director – Chief of Editor, MSc PHAM VAN TRUONG

Manuscript: Director – Chief of Editor, MSc PHAM VAN TRUONG

Editors: DAU XUAN LUAN - NGUYEN THI MINH THUY

Formatting and proofreading: HOANG LAN ANH

Cover: PHAM THI HA

People's Army Publishing House

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Printed: 4^th Quarter - 2022

Submission for circulation: 4^th Quarter - 2022

Book size: 14.5x20.5cm

Number of pages: 212 pages,

Quantity: 1,001 copies

Publishing Plan Registration Number: 1557-2022/CXBIPH/l-35/QDND

Publishing Decision Number: 383/QD-NXBQDND, on December 19, 2022

Type setting: People's Army Publishing House.

Printed and bound by: Printing Factory of Ministry of National Defense

Address: Km13 Ngoc Hoi Street, Ngu Hiep, Thanh Tri, Hanoi

ISBN: 978-604-51-8382-3

Print number: 11944

 

[I] In Major General TRAN KINH CHI’s Memoir

[II] At the writing time in 2006