Silent "rescue" operations
In 2018, in Chanh Nghia 7 neighborhood (now part of Thu Dau Mot ward), Ms. LTT (born in 1972) was a name that caused many people concern. Her all-night parties and her return home in a state of exhaustion as an addict plunged her family into despair. "The brown fairy" (heroin) not only eroded her health but also pushed her further and further away from her relatives and neighbors.
But then, the soldiers of yesteryear, now members of the veterans' association, appeared at the right time. Without being forceful or harsh, they chose a more approachable approach: sometimes over a cup of coffee, sometimes with a meal, and other times with a trip away. Little by little, they patiently talked, shared, and gradually untangled the knots in the heart of the woman who had once gone astray. It took almost two years for Ms. T. to truly change. Thanks to the efforts of the veterans, she gave up drugs, rebuilt her life, and became the owner of a well-known production facility in the local area.
Ms. T.'s story is not unique. Mr. NVA (born in 1989), who was once immersed in a life of debauchery and addiction, has now become the owner of a small restaurant, supporting himself and his family. Similarly, Mr. PTN (born in 1984), once an addict, now diligently earns a living at Thu Dau Mot market, cultivating a simple and happy life... These "rescue" efforts are not noisy, but are challenging and timely. They face not a visible enemy, but rather dependence, temptation, and the hidden psychological aspects of addiction.
Persistently untangle the knot.
The "3-in-1" model of the Veterans Association of Chanh Nghia ward (now Thu Dau Mot ward) is not only an innovative approach to ensuring security and order, but also a humane support system helping those who have gone astray to find themselves again.
With a flexible approach, based on empathy and credibility, the veteran association members persistently support each case, from providing moral encouragement to assisting in finding employment and stabilizing their lives.
A key feature of this model is the close coordination between veterans, local police, neighborhood management boards, and families. This strong bond creates a solid "community support system," ensuring that those who have made mistakes do not feel abandoned. Many, after rehabilitation, have become positive role models, continuing to support and inspire others with their resilience. Over time, the model has proven its effectiveness, contributing to building a safe, compassionate, and sustainably developing community.
According to Mr. Le Tien Son, Head of the Inspection Committee of the Veterans Association of Thu Dau Mot Ward, the "3-in-1" model, where three veteran members help and rehabilitate one offender, cannot succeed without patience and close coordination from the veterans, the police, the neighborhood, and especially the families of the addicts. Each case requires monitoring and persuasion for 1-2 years, or even longer. It's crucial to understand them, be close to them, and most importantly, not give up halfway. Each person who rehabilitates means one more happy family and one more good citizen for society.
Mr. Le Tien Son, former Chairman of the Veterans Association of Chanh Nghia Ward (formerly), currently Head of the Inspection Committee of the Veterans Association of Thu Dau Mot Ward, is one of the key members of the "3-in-1" model. With his dedication and persistent contributions to this work, Mr. Son was awarded a commendation by the Chairman of the People's Committee of Binh Duong Province in 2023 and a commendation by the Minister of Public Security in 2024.
The process is implemented systematically: from developing a plan, coordinating with the police to select targets, assigning suitable members, to persistently approaching, monitoring, and supporting. In this process, the role of the family is particularly important, serving as both a support system and an "extended arm" in the rehabilitation process.
The reality is that the journey to recovery is not easy. The cravings for drugs, the temptations from old friends... are always lurking. But it is at these times that the veterans appear, standing at the gate, calling to check on them... as a silent reminder, yet powerful enough to give them strength to fight against "the brown fairy" (heroin). From 2018 to 2025, the model has successfully rehabilitated 5 drug addicts in the area. These are modest numbers, but they represent a long process spanning many years. Each case is a life saved, a family reunited and harmoniously restored.
Furthermore, the model has contributed to reducing crime and maintaining security and order in the locality. Starting as a pilot project in Ward 7, the model has been expanded to many branches, becoming a shining example in the "Exemplary Veterans" movement.
Behind the success of these cases of rehabilitating drug addicts lies the dedication of former soldiers, now continuing the "fight" on the front lines of human rehabilitation. And perhaps, the greatest value of the "3-in-1" model lies not only in the numbers, but in the rekindled faith: even in past mistakes, people can still turn back if there is someone patient enough to take their hand and guide them back.
Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/thap-lai-niem-tin-cho-nguoi-lam-loi-post853652.html
Comment (0)