Born in 1946 and currently residing in Dao Thanh ward ( Dong Thap province), even though the war ended more than half a century ago, memories of the resistance years remain vividly etched in her mind.

A turning point in her life came from an unforgettable memory when she was just 12 years old: witnessing firsthand the unwavering sacrifice of a revolutionary soldier.
Two years later, at the age of 14, she joined the guerrilla forces of Binh Ninh commune, embarking on a journey full of hardships and challenges, where her willpower and courage were forged day by day.
In 1963, due to the urgent demands of the battlefield, she was sent to attend a first-aid training course. From then on, her life became intertwined with military medicine – a field that demands not only expertise but also courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering spirit.
In extremely difficult conditions, amidst fierce bombing and shelling, military medical personnel had to race against time to save the lives of the wounded while also facing constant danger.
One of the memories she cherishes most is transporting three seriously wounded soldiers to the rear (she was only 17 years old at the time). Back then, the enemy maintained tight control over the Tien River, and all movement was closely monitored.
In a desperate situation, she and a local resident disguised themselves as father and son, transporting coconuts and bananas to the market. Surrounded by checkpoints, she calmly responded to the patrol officers, while the wounded soldiers were hidden among the goods.
Thanks to their resourcefulness and bravery, the mission was a success. "At that time, all I thought about was saving them, even if it meant sacrificing myself," Mrs. Tam recalled emotionally.

Through practical challenges, she quickly matured, gained the trust of the organization, received training, and was admitted to the Party on August 3, 1964, at the age of 18.
This is not only a significant milestone in her life, but also a strong source of spiritual support for her to continue moving forward on the path she has chosen.
During the war years, she repeatedly faced the thin line between life and death.
On one occasion, she and her comrades disguised themselves as farmers to approach and rescue a wounded officer surrounded by enemy forces. Under heavy gunfire, they bravely carried the wounded man to safety.
Once, due to several sleepless nights, she dozed off while on guard duty. When she woke up, the enemy was closing in. Without thinking, she quickly threw a grenade in a counterattack and narrowly escaped the encirclement.
But her most vivid memory is the 27 days and nights she spent with the 1st Military Medical Corps protecting and transporting nearly 100 wounded soldiers to the rear. In extremely difficult conditions, with limited personnel, they treated patients, fought, and even had to clear mines themselves to open a path.
Every step was fraught with danger, but the unit's spirit remained unwavering: "If we die, we die; we won't let the wounded be wounded a second time."
After 27 days and nights of relentless effort, all the wounded soldiers were brought back safely – a miracle demonstrating the unwavering will and high sense of responsibility of the military medics.
Throughout that journey, what helped her overcome all difficulties was nothing other than her absolute faith in the Party. That faith was not only a driving force, but also a guiding principle that helped her maintain her composure, remain calm in all situations, and be ready to sacrifice for the mission.

From a young guerrilla fighter, Ms. Tam matured through each battle, each rescue operation, and each encounter with danger.
She was wounded seven times; once she carried a wounded soldier crawling across the battlefield and was injured in the leg; another time she suffered a head injury from falling into a military bunker; and the most serious injury was when a bullet pierced her back and kidney… But none of this could deter this resilient female military medic.
After the reunification of the country, Ms. Tâm continued her education and then studied medicine at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy. Upon graduation, she returned to work at the Provincial Military Command, serving as Head of the Military Medical Department and also as President of the local Women's Association.
Regardless of her position, she has always been dedicated and responsible, contributing to building a strong unit.
In 2003, Ms. Tam retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Returning to civilian life, she was an exemplary wife, mother, and grandmother, a strong source of emotional support for her family.
Moreover, she actively participated in local movements, lived harmoniously and approachably, and was loved by the people. The image of this female hero from the past continues to spread positive values in life today.
According to Nguyen Thi Kieu Tien, Vice President of the Provincial Women's Union: "Not only is she a hero in the war, Ms. Tam is also a shining example in everyday life, always exemplary and at the forefront of various movements, loved and trusted by the people, including cadres and female members of the provincial Women's Union."
For her immense contributions in combat, study, and work, Ms. Le Thi Hieu Tam was awarded the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces, Distinguished Physician, and many other prestigious awards by the Party and the State, such as: the First, Second, and Third Class Liberation War Merit Medal; the First Class Anti-American Resistance Medal; the First, Second, and Third Class Glorious Soldier Medal… This is not only a well-deserved recognition but also a source of pride for her family, hometown, and present-day generations.
The war is long over, but the memories of that time of struggle remain vivid.
For Ms. Le Thi Hieu Tam, it is not just a memory, but an integral part of her life – the place that forged her into a resilient female military doctor, full of compassion and unwavering faith in the Party and the revolution.
LE PHUONG
Source: https://baodongthap.vn/nu-quan-y-tron-doi-son-sat-voi-dang-a239515.html






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