On 30/7, the Dong Nai Provincial Military Command announced the discovery of many relatively clear photos, along with 26 sets of martyrs' remains, during an ongoing search and collection operation. These findings occurred in an expanded search area in Minh Duc commune, Dong Nai province.

Portrait of a man in military uniform found at the martyrs' remains search and collection site in Minh Duc commune. *Photo: Thai Ha*

Team K72, responsible for the search and collection of remains and artifacts, unearthed these significant items. Lieutenant Colonel Vu Van Tho, head of Team K72, confirmed that more than half of the exhumed remains are suitable for biological sampling, which could facilitate DNA testing for identification.

The discovered photos include portraits of male soldiers, young women, groups of young women, and military personnel. These images are considered vital documents, offering potential leads to locate relatives and identify the fallen soldiers. Some photos have been sent to a specialized unit for restoration, aiming to enhance their clarity and detail.

Group photo found among the martyrs' artifacts in Minh Duc. *Photo: Thai Ha*

Beyond the photographs, the team also recovered various personal effects from the graves. These artifacts include a pen engraved with "Tien Quy" and an image of a pair of doves, along with guns, canteens, leather wallets, and combs. These items provide glimpses into the lives of those who perished.

The mass grave is located on the northwest slope of Hill 74, within Dong Dau hamlet. This area holds significant historical importance, having been a battleground during the 1967-1975 period. Numerous fierce engagements took place here between main units of the liberation army and forces of the US Army and the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, leading to the deaths of many cadres and soldiers.

Portrait of a young woman found in the mass grave in Minh Duc. *Photo: Thai Ha*

Specifically, in November 1969, the region was central to the US allied forces' "Search and Blockade Minh Duc" operation. Concurrently, the liberation army strategically ambushed enemy motorized convoys, tanks, and armored vehicles in the vicinity, underscoring the intense combat that characterized the area.

Phuoc Tuan