The "fire keeper" of humanity

With 16 years of association with the Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin in Bai Chay Ward,

CCB   Nguyen Thanh Thoa, Chairman of the Association, is always dedicated and devoted to the association's work with all the heart of a soldier.

Veteran Nguyen Thanh Thoa and representatives of Ha Long City Police presented gifts to Agent Orange victim Bui Thi Thuy (Zone 3, Bai Chay Ward), January 2025.

Mr. Thoa joined the army in 1972 at the age of 20, was assigned to the armed police force, stationed in Co To island district (now Co To special zone). He was then sent to study at the Logistics Academy, then served in the army in many other positions. In 2005, he retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Returning to normal life, trusted by members and local Party committees, he successively held the positions of Vice Chairman of the Ward Veterans Association and Chairman of the Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin in Bai Chay Ward.

Veteran Nguyen Thanh Thoa shared: "As a soldier, I somewhat understand the physical and mental pain of members infected with Agent Orange. Not only them, but also their children and grandchildren have to suffer the consequences. Therefore, helping them ease their pain is my responsibility and also my reason for living."

Mr. Thoa and the Association have promoted socialization work, mobilizing support from agencies, units, businesses, and philanthropists. Mr. Thoa said: "We do not make general appeals. Each situation has a specific address. The Association only plays the role of a bridge between sponsors and those in need of help, ensuring transparency and the right target."

A typical case is Ms. Bui Thi Thuy (45 years old, Zone 3, Bai Chay Ward), the daughter of a veteran infected with Agent Orange. After Typhoon Yagi in 2024, her house's roof was severely damaged. The Association coordinated with the government and "benefactors" to support repair costs, helping her stabilize her life.

Ms. Tran Thi Huong (46 years old, Zone 4, Bai Chay Ward), the daughter of a deceased veteran infected with Agent Orange, is currently in poor health and lives alone. Every year, the Association mobilizes resources to support Ms. Huong both materially and spiritually.

Veteran Nguyen Thanh Thoa (4th from left) and delegates attending the Congress of the Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin in Bai Chay Ward for the 2023-2028 term. Photo provided by the character

Mr. Ngo Khanh Huy, Director of Minh Toan Trading and Service Company Limited, said: "As a local business, every time Mr. Thoa proposed support, we were always willing to join hands for the community and for Agent Orange victims."

Mr. Thoa himself and his family also support members with special circumstances, even though they are just small gifts, but they contain the deep sharing of a comrade and predecessor.

Veteran Ngo Xuan Binh, Vice President of the Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin in Bai Chay Ward, commented: "I have worked with Mr. Thoa for many years and have seen that he always cares deeply for his members. He goes directly to each house, quietly helping, without making a fuss. He maintains the soldier's demeanor of discipline, responsibility, closeness and great respect for humanity."

Before the merger of the ward, the Association had 110 members. After the merger, the Association had 145 members; 100% of members received social benefits according to the regulations of the State and the province, no members had any problems with policy benefits.

The persistent and dedicated contributions of veteran Nguyen Thanh Thoa have been recognized by all levels. He was awarded a Certificate of Merit by the Provincial People's Committee and the Central Committee of the Vietnam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin for his achievements in building the Association and taking care of the victims' lives.

At the age of over 70, veteran Nguyen Thanh Thoa is still agile and has a gentle smile. To him, continuing to accompany the unfortunate is not only a responsibility, but also a mission.

Thanh Duong

Source: https://baoquangninh.vn/nguoi-giu-lua-nhan-ai-3370529.html