Born into a family with a military tradition in Binh Thuy ward, Can Tho city, Pham Ngoc Thach nurtured the dream of wearing the military uniform from an early age, following in the footsteps of his father who had served in the army. That image silently became a steadfast motivation, urging Thach to pursue a military career.

After graduating with a degree in Automotive Engineering from Can Tho University in 2023, instead of seeking civilian employment like many of his peers, Thach decided to volunteer for military service. "I want to be trained in the military environment, live a disciplined and responsible life, and become a useful citizen for society and the country," Thach shared.

Soldier Pham Ngoc Thach performs the oath ceremony before the military flag.

Three months of intensive new recruit training was a major challenge for a young man fresh out of university. From early mornings to studying techniques and tactics on the training ground, Thach always strictly adhered to discipline, actively studied, and maintained a progressive spirit. At the end of the training course, Thach achieved excellent results in all aspects of the examinations.

With his outstanding achievements, Private Pham Ngoc Thach was chosen to represent the new recruits in the solemn oath-taking ceremony before the military flag. Recalling that moment, Thach emotionally recounted: “I was very nervous, but also very proud. Representing my comrades in taking the oath before the military flag was a great honor. I told myself I had to be very serious, because at that moment it wasn't just about myself, but also about the image of the entire unit.”

After training, Thach was assigned to the Engineering Company, Staff Department. With his background in mechanical engineering, Thach quickly adapted to specialized equipment and weaponry. Thach often proactively exchanged information and learned from technical officers about how to maintain and operate modern engineering equipment, gradually mastering the tasks assigned to him.

Alongside his duties at the unit, Private Pham Ngoc Thach is using his free time to prepare for the second degree exam at the Political Officer School, a goal he has cherished since enlisting. The shift from technical to political studies reflects his holistic development, showing that Thach aspires to become a military officer with both strong political convictions and solid professional skills.

Thach's persistent efforts paid off when he was accepted into the Political Officer Training School.

“Comrade Thach is a soldier with a clearly progressive spirit. Despite his busy schedule, Comrade Thach perseveres in his studies, determined to pass the exam to serve in the Army for the long term. The unit always creates favorable conditions for him to study. His comrades in the unit are also willing to share the workload so that Thach can focus on his studies,” said Senior Lieutenant Pham Cong Bang, Political Officer of the Engineering Company, Staff Department, Can Tho City Military Command.

In September 2024, Thach's persistent efforts paid off when he was accepted and officially became a student at the Political Officer Training School. This was not only a proud milestone for Thach personally but also a positive source of motivation for many young soldiers. Even now, despite studying far from his unit, the story of Private Pham Ngoc Thach is still remembered as a vivid example of the image of a young person in the new era: someone with ideals, who strives hard, and who dares to dedicate themselves to the Fatherland.

From engineering student to soldier, and then officer cadet, Pham Ngoc Thach's journey was not easy. But the most valuable thing is his spirit of volunteerism, his will to overcome difficulties, and his aspiration for growth in the military environment. For young people today, especially in the Army, seriousness, discipline, and a life ideal will always be valuable assets to help them move forward steadily on the path of serving the Fatherland.

Text and photos: THANH HA

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/phong-su-dieu-tra/phong-su/tu-nguoi-chien-si-tro-thanh-hoc-vien-ao-linh-840085