Delegates offer incense at Bến Lức Martyrs’ Cemetery. — VNA/VNS Photos Đức Hạnh

TÂY NINH — Authorities in Bến Lức and Dương Minh Châu communes in the southern border province of Tây Ninh on Wednesday launched a campaign to collect and transfer biological samples from unidentified martyrs’ remains for DNA analysis, as part of the nationwide 500-day campaign for the search for, recovery and identification of fallen soldiers’ remains.

The initiative is regarded as a significant political mission aimed at honouring those who sacrificed their lives for the nation while helping fulfil the long-standing wishes of their families across Việt Nam.

The Bến Lức Martyrs’ Cemetery is the resting place of 1,779 fallen soldiers, including 665 graves whose identities have yet to be determined and require sampling for DNA testing. At the Dương Minh Châu Martyrs’ Cemetery, 394 out of 406 graves remain unidentified, making the two localities among the largest sample-collection sites in Tây Ninh.

The implementation process faces a number of challenges, including incomplete archival records, inconsistencies in grave maps and burial information accumulated over different periods, and the fact that many graves have undergone relocation or restoration over the years. As a result, identifying appropriate sampling locations requires careful and precise procedures.

To ensure compliance with technical and scientific standards, local authorities have strictly followed guidance issued by the National Steering Committee for the search for, recovery and identification of fallen soldiers’ remains, Military Region 7, and Tây Ninh Province. Necessary equipment, excavation tools, storage facilities, and sample-management systems have been fully prepared, while public awareness campaigns have been intensified to promote understanding of the programme’s objectives and significance.

Technicians collect samples to identify martyrs’ remains.

In Bến Lức, local authorities have mobilised 74 personnel and established two specialised teams responsible for excavation, sample collection, data digitisation, logistics, communications, and security. The commune aims to complete sampling for all 665 unidentified graves by November 30.

Meanwhile, the excavation and collection of samples for DNA testing at the Dương Minh Châu Martyrs’ Cemetery is scheduled to be carried out from now until July 27. — VNA/VNS