The Ministry of National Defense is drafting a decree on policies and benefits for those involved in searching for and repatriating the remains of fallen soldiers. Those eligible for these benefits include officers, professional soldiers, non-commissioned officers, enlisted personnel, defense workers, and civil servants, along with others involved in related work.

The Ministry proposes increasing the monthly responsibility allowance by 0.5 times the base salary set by the Government at the time of implementation, and by the allowance for the rank of private second class for non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel. When serving domestically, they will receive an additional allowance of 20% of their current salary based on rank or position, plus leadership position allowances and seniority allowances.

A tombstone marked "Unknown Soldier" at Road 9 National Martyrs Cemetery (Dong Ha City, Quang Tri). Photo: Hoang Tao

A tombstone marked "Unknown Soldier" at Road 9 National Martyrs Cemetery (Dong Ha City, Quang Tri). Photo: Hoang Tao

For repatriation missions abroad, soldiers will receive 100% of their current salary based on rank or position, plus leadership position allowances and seniority allowances (if applicable).

The Ministry also proposes adding a meal allowance of twice the basic meal allowance for infantry non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel when serving abroad. The additional meal allowance is calculated from the day of departure for the mission.

For domestic missions, the additional meal allowance is equal to the basic meal allowance for infantry non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel. This additional allowance is incorporated into the meals and not paid in cash.

Furthermore, officers and soldiers will receive an allowance of 0.2 times the base salary per person per day, calculated based on the actual days spent on surveying, verifying information, and organizing search and repatriation activities.

Regarding health support, the Ministry proposes an allowance of 1.5 million VND per person (no more than twice a year), an increase of one million VND compared to the current amount. Team leaders, political officers, deputy team leaders, and deputy political officers of search and repatriation teams will receive a monthly phone allowance of 200,000 VND.

In cases where soldiers are injured or become ill and require medical examination and treatment at overseas facilities, the costs will be covered. If they need to be transferred back to the country for treatment, transportation costs will be reimbursed based on actual expenses.

According to the Ministry of National Defense, the search and repatriation force undertakes exceptionally arduous and hazardous work, often working 10-12 hours a day, far from home, family, and populated areas. Repatriation missions often take place in harsh climates, challenging terrains, and with high labor intensity, significantly impacting health. Several officers and soldiers have been injured or killed in the line of duty.

The current regulations were issued in 2013, while the Government has adjusted the base salary 7 times. Allowances and direct support have not been adjusted. Therefore, the Ministry proposes increasing health support, allowances, additional meal provisions to replenish energy, and additional funding for Lao and Cambodian language training for overseas missions.

Son Ha