General Nguyen Trong Nghia, Head of the General Department of Politics, and leaders of the Ministry of National Defense also joined the delegation.

In front of the commemorative stele, the delegation reviewed General Vo Nguyen Giap's life and career, emphasizing his special interest in protecting the sea and islands during his lifetime. In the 1960s, anticipating increased US reconnaissance activities in the North, the General chose this high point as his workplace, directly assigning combat missions and directing the development of strategic defense plans for the northern coastal provinces.

In 1982, the Ministry of National Defense built this area into General Vo Nguyen Giap's workplace, from which the local people named the place "Ong Giap Hill".

After the incense offering ceremony, the delegation planted a commemorative tree within the relic site's grounds.

Minister of National Defense Phan Van Giang offers incense to commemorate General Vo Nguyen Giap. Photo: *Hoang Phong*.

General Vo Nguyen Giap was born on 25/8/1911 in An Xa village, Loc Thuy commune, Le Thuy district. He became the first general of the Vietnam People's Army at just 37 years old. He held positions such as Politburo member, Secretary of the Central Military Commission, Minister of National Defense, and Commander-in-Chief of the Vietnam People's Army. He passed away on 4/10/2013 and was laid to rest in his hometown at Vung Chua - Dao Yen, Quang Dong commune, Quang Trach district, Quang Binh province (now Quang Tri province).

Earlier that day, General Phan Van Giang, along with General Secretary To Lam, attended the ceremony in Hai Phong to award the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces for the third time to the Vietnam People's Navy.

Son Ha