On 15/1, Team 584 of the Quang Tri Provincial Military Command exhumed the remains of a fallen soldier in an acacia and melaleuca forest owned by Ho Van Phuong in Trai Ca hamlet, Dakrong commune. Among the personal effects, a metal pen remained largely intact, with a black casing, engraved with various motifs such as a pair of doves, a coconut tree, a building, and the name Vuong Chi Cao.

The fountain pen engraved with "Vuong Chi Cao" was found with the fallen soldier's remains. Photo: Team 584

In addition to these remains, Team 584 has located and gathered three other sets of remains in this area since 2/1. These were found at depths ranging from 0.8 to one meter, wrapped in parachute fabric. Accompanying personal effects included pith helmets, shoes, belts, military hammocks, ammunition boxes, AK rounds, and other personal items.

Team 584 has brought the four sets of fallen soldiers' remains to their headquarters for temporary housing and is expanding the search area.

Search forces excavate the fallen soldier's remains. Photo: Team 584

Dakrong commune borders Laos. During the Vietnam War, the area included the Ba Long war zone, characterized by rugged mountains and forests, serving as a strategic corridor along Route 9. Many military campaigns, troop deployments, and fierce battles took place here. Numerous cadres and soldiers sacrificed their lives in this area.

Dac Thanh