Vietnamese Hero Ngo Thi Tuyen, Symbol of Resilience, Dies at 81

Vietnam is mourning the loss of Ngo Thi Tuyen, a revered Hero of the People's Armed Forces, who passed away at her home in Thanh Hoa province at the age of 81. A funeral service was held on July 5, with local authorities and her family bidding farewell to the courageous woman.

Tuyen became a national symbol for her extraordinary bravery during the war against the United States. At just 19 years old, she was part of the Nam Ngan militia. In April 1965, amidst intense bombing raids on the Ham Rong Bridge area, Tuyen undertook a perilous mission. She swam out to a naval vessel in a strong current to help transport ammunition, even as enemy aircraft circled overhead.

Her most iconic act, which occurred 61 years ago, involved carrying two heavy ammunition crates, weighing a staggering 98 kilograms, across a dike. This feat, accomplished while under enemy fire, ensured timely resupply for soldiers and became an enduring symbol of revolutionary heroism. Her actions, alongside the collective efforts of the Ham Rong-Nam Ngan forces, contributed to downing 47 U.S. aircraft in two days, a significant blow to American air power.

Born in 1946 in Nam Ngan, a region with a strong revolutionary tradition, Tuyen grew up during the division of Vietnam. Her life was dedicated to serving the Party and the people. In recognition of her remarkable contributions and unwavering courage, she was awarded the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces on January 1, 1967. Her legacy as a resilient and brave Vietnamese woman will continue to inspire future generations.