On the morning of 4/9, Lieutenant Ngoc Han returned to Ho Chi Minh City from Hanoi after completing her commentary duties at the 80th National Day celebration. Two days after the event, Han still felt the pride of being one of the few southern voices featured in the parade.

According to Han, the nationwide selection process, open to various professions, began in early June. After several rounds, Han was selected. The 13-member commentary team included personnel from the military and civilian sectors, such as Senior Colonel Nguyen Huu Lap, Major Tran Thi Ngoc Vu, and broadcasters Hoai Anh and Huu Bang. Han was assigned to commentate on the Vietnam People's Army and Public Security segments.

Ngoc Han (right) and broadcaster Hoai Anh backstage. Photo: Provided by the subject.

Initially, Han felt the pressure of delivering accurate and emotive commentary while maintaining solemnity and expressing national spirit. With military discipline, she dedicated herself to the task, maintaining discipline throughout the preparations.

She typically woke at 5:30 a.m. for vocal exercises, followed by group rehearsals at 7:30 a.m. All activities revolved around maintaining vocal health, physical well-being, and a positive mindset for the 2/9 event. During rehearsals, Han was impressed by the unity and coordination among colleagues from all three regions of Vietnam. "Each line in the script was not just words, but also conveyed shared emotions and harmony. This deepened our camaraderie," she said.

The most memorable aspect for Han was the public's affection. "Every time our team traveled to the square, my heart swelled upon seeing the radiant faces and warm smiles along the way. People waved the national flag, greeted us, and offered heartfelt, simple messages," Han recalled. In those moments, she realized that every step she took, every word she uttered, was not just a duty but also carried the pride entrusted to her by the people.

Participating in A80 meant Han had to leave her three children behind to train and live in Hanoi for nearly two months. Despite missing her family, she suppressed her emotions to focus on her duties, regularly calling home during her free time. On the day of the parade, her children watched on television, thrilled to hear their mother's voice.

Beyond work, Han and her colleagues visited historical sites, ancient temples and pagodas, and enjoyed northern cuisine during their time in the capital.

Currently an officer in the Political Department of the Ho Chi Minh City Command, Han frequently works away from home. Balancing her professional duties with her roles as a wife and mother presents a significant challenge, but she strives to embody the ideal of a female soldier who excels both professionally and domestically. Han credits the unwavering support of her parents as a crucial source of strength.

Following the event, Han returned to her unit to resume her military duties. The extensive training for this major national event reinforced the values of discipline and responsibility. Alongside her work, she dedicates time to her family and nurturing her home.

Ngoc Han at the 80th National Day celebration. Photo: Provided by the subject.

The 34-year-old Lieutenant Le Thi Ngoc Han comes from a revolutionary family; her maternal grandfather was a martyr, and her maternal grandmother was a resistance fighter. In 2014, she participated in the 60th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu victory as a southern guerrilla fighter. Last year, she was part of the commentary team for the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu victory.

Due to the vocal demands of her work, Han prioritizes vocal care. She maintains a balanced diet, gets enough sleep, and avoids things harmful to her vocal cords, such as cold or spicy foods and excessive talking or shouting. Daily, she practices pronunciation, breathing exercises, and techniques for conveying emotion and volume effectively. She also emphasizes professional development and adaptability in various situations. "I view my voice not just as a tool for my profession, but also as part of my responsibility. It must be constantly nurtured and honed to convey the appropriate spirit and emotion of each important event," she stated.

Phuong Linh