The old soldier 'keeps the flame' of unity alive.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, there are still those who silently dedicate themselves with unwavering perseverance and warm hearts, becoming pillars of support, fostering community spirit, and building trust among the people. One such person is retired Army Colonel Nguyen Thanh Van, currently the Chairman of the Veterans Association of Quyet Thang Ward – a simple, resilient old soldier who always upholds the qualities of a "Soldier of Uncle Ho" in everyday life.

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Van, Chairman of the Veterans Association of Quyet Thang Ward, is always dedicated to the work of the Association.

In the morning, in the small room of the Veterans Association of Quyet Thang ward, the clock struck exactly 7 o'clock. Mr. Van was already sitting at his desk, meticulously arranging papers and reviewing his work schedule for the new day. He maintained this disciplined habit since his military years. Even after retirement, he still worked diligently and decisively, always valuing every small detail to ensure the successful completion of his work.

His comrades and fellow members of the Association often affectionately call him "the keeper of the flame of unity." Because in any meeting, gathering, or visit to a member's family, he never approaches with the spirit of a "commander," but rather with the spirit of listening and sharing. In those gentle words lies a lifetime of experience – nearly 36 years of dedication to the military, rising from an ordinary soldier to retirement.

Returning to his hometown, instead of enjoying a peaceful old age, he continued to shoulder responsibilities for the community. Formerly the Party branch secretary of the hamlet, he is now the Chairman of the Veterans Association of Quyet Thang Ward. In every role, he has always "rolled up his sleeves" to work alongside the people, donating land for roads, going from street to street, meeting each house to house to encourage residents to maintain order and build a cultured life. When people mention him, they often immediately remember the military recruitment seasons.

He and the Veterans Association persistently visited each household, especially those with children of military age, to campaign and disseminate information about the Military Service Law. He emphasized exemplary conduct to association members and instilled in young people a sense of pride in wearing the military uniform. For many years, Quyết Thắng Ward has consistently met its military recruitment targets, and the quality of recruits has steadily improved, partly thanks to his positive contributions.

Long Hong Ngoc, a young man from Nam Thanh residential area who volunteered to enlist, shared: "The encouragement and motivation from the veterans' association, especially Mr. Van, gave me the determination to enlist and continue the tradition of our forefathers."

Veterans association members from Quyet Thang ward on the new rural road.

Speaking of his contributions, locals still often mention the story of mobilizing members to donate land for road construction. In just a few years, the Veterans Association of the ward successfully persuaded 84 households to donate over 2,800 square meters of land, worth more than 3 billion VND.

Without imposing or giving orders, but solely through his credibility and sincerity, he transformed his appeals into voluntary actions from the local people. The newly opened roads not only changed the urban landscape but also strengthened community bonds.

Not only is Mr. Van skilled at mediation, but he is also known as a "master mediator" in the village. Many small disputes, seemingly insurmountable, are resolved through reason and sincerity when he intervenes.

Time and again, loud and soft arguments were replaced by handshakes and smiles. Mr. Nguyen Van Son, a resident of Go Moc hamlet, said: "With Mr. Van around, big problems become small, and small problems disappear. We admire him because he lives sincerely, without favoritism or self-interest."

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Van (standing in the middle) mediated a conflict between two families in Go Moc hamlet using reason and sincerity.

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Van and the veterans of Quyet Thang ward also took the lead in mobilizing people to support key projects such as: the extended Bac Son road, the Nam Thanh urban area, and the Traditional Medicine Hospital.

For Mr. Van, "keeping the flame" of unity alive isn't about grand gestures, but about starting with the smallest things. From disseminating legal information to mediating disputes within the neighborhood, everything is aimed at preserving solidarity and fostering trust among the people.

Having served in the military for nearly 40 years, and then immersing himself in local community work for many more, Mr. Vân is like a quietly burning lamp. Not flashy, not noisy, but persistent and warm, guiding the younger generation, extending camaraderie, and fostering solidarity within the community.

Source: https://baothainguyen.vn/quoc-phong-an-ninh/202509/nguoi-linh-gia-giu-lua-doan-ket-83c2904/