During the process of taking biological samples for DNA testing at Hon Dat Martyrs' Cemetery, An Giang province, DNA Sampling Team No. 4, Steering Committee 515 of An Giang province discovered a pair of sandals still quite intact in the martyr's grave. The artifacts were preserved and recorded information with the hope of becoming a clue to help find relatives and identify martyrs.
DNA sampling team No. 4 began performing its duties at Hon Dat Martyrs' Cemetery from August 27, 2026. To date, officers and staff of the Team have exhumed 114 graves, of which 71 samples are eligible for biological samples for DNA testing.
Notably, during the process of opening a tomb, the task force discovered a pair of sandals that were still quite intact. The sandals have a strap style, colors and decorative motifs that can still be clearly observed; on the sole there are still the handwriting of the manufacturer. Compared to many artifacts that have been decomposed and rusted after a long time lying underground, the condition of the sandals is a noteworthy detail, convenient for image recognition.
According to the records of the task force, artifacts were discovered at grave number 10, row 08, area 3B. Immediately after discovery, the pair of sandals were preserved, recorded and attached to the grave location to serve management, verification and information comparison.
Although it is not yet possible to confirm whether the artifact has sufficient basis to determine the identity of the person buried in the grave, the unique characteristics of the sandals can evoke memories for relatives or comrades. In many cases, martyrs lack information, an item they used to carry with them can also become a supporting clue for dossiers and DNA test results.
Steering Committee 515 of An Giang province hopes that relatives of martyrs, veterans, comrades and people who used to live and fight in Hon Dat area will observe images of artifacts. If they notice sandals with familiar features or information related to martyrs at grave number 10, row 08, area 3B, Hon Dat Martyrs' Cemetery, please provide additional names, hometowns, units, time of sacrifice, repatriation information, photos, letters or related documents for functional agencies to check and compare. For all relevant information, please contact Steering Committee 515 of An Giang province via phone number: 0976. 222. 525.
