Vietnamese War Hero Ngo Thi Tuyen Dies at 81

Anh hung Nhan dan (People's Hero) Ngo Thi Tuyen, a figure celebrated for her role in defending the vital Ham Rong Bridge during Vietnam's war for national reunification, has passed away at the age of 81. Her family announced her death on July 4, 2026.

Tuyen, born in 1946 in Thanh Hoa province, was a member of the local militia in Nam Ngan. During the intense U.S. bombing campaigns of early 1965, aimed at severing North Vietnam's supply lines to the South, the Ham Rong Bridge became a primary target. In just two days, April 3-4, 1965, U.S. forces unleashed hundreds of bombs and rockets on the Thanh Hoa region, with the Ham Rong area facing particularly heavy attacks.

On April 4, 1965, amidst ongoing enemy aircraft activity, Tuyen volunteered for a critical task. After helping to track down a downed U.S. pilot, she assisted a naval vessel by transporting ammunition casings ashore and delivering new shells. She then bravely carried two heavy ammunition boxes, weighing a total of 98 kilograms, double her own body weight, across the dike to the waiting soldiers. This act of extraordinary courage enabled troops to resupply and continue their defense of the bridge.

Her contributions, alongside those of other soldiers and militia, were instrumental in repelling the U.S. air attacks. The defense forces shot down 47 U.S. aircraft and captured several pilots, ensuring the bridge's safety. This success was so significant that it was acknowledged by the U.S. as "two dark days for the U.S. Air Force." For her exceptional bravery and service, Ngo Thi Tuyen received numerous accolades, including two third-class Gallantry Orders, a medal from Ho Chi Minh, and multiple commendations. In 1967, she was officially awarded the title of People's Armed Forces Hero.

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That was two dark days for the U.S. Air Force.