US veterans work with Quang Tri’s leaders

Chairman of the Quang Tri People’s Committee Vo Van Hung today [October 23] worked with the Veterans for Peace (VFP) – Chapter 160 Vietnam led by Chuck Searcy.

Chairman of the Quang Tri People’s Committee Vo Van Hung welcomes a delegation of Veterans for Peace (VFP) members on October 23. Photo: M.D

Veterans For Peace is an international organization made up of military veterans from all branches,

Founded in 1985 in Missouri, the US, the non-governmental organization VFP made up of military veterans, military family members, and allies is dedicated to building a culture of peace, exposing the true costs of war, and healing the wounds of war. Its networks are made up of over 140 chapters across the US and abroad.

The VFP in Vietnam is Chapter 160 or VFP – Chapter 160 Vietnam, an international chapter with members in Vietnam and the US.

VFP – Chapter 160 Vietnam focused on the problems of Agent Orange-caused birth defects and unexploded munitions (UXO) still scattered across the farms and fields of the country. It also hosts a yearly two-week insider tour of Vietnam. The tours are memorable, the second experience of a lifetime for Vietnam veterans in the nation of peace and beauty from war-torn land.

Speaking at the meeting, Chuck Searcy highly appreciated Quang Tri’s leadership in overcoming war legacies and boosting socio-economic development that helped improve people’s living standards, better ensuring social welfare, and taking care of victims of UXO and Agent Orange/dioxin.

Chuck Searcy said VFP is careful in using the funds effectively to assist wartime victims the best it can. The visit to Quang Tri and Vietnam in general enables VFP members to understand the situation to discuss the best funding for specific regions.

The delegation has provided useful support solutions in Quang Tri by acknowledging the reality of the obstacles and difficulties in recovering from wartime legacies. The delegation hopes that additional working sessions between the two sides will be held in order to find practical ways to support and overcome the effects of war.

Chairman Vo Van Hung highlighted how much Quang Tri Province values VFP’s recent efforts in the province, particularly in resolving the wartime aftermaths, aiding those harmed by toxic chemicals, and fostering socio-economic development.

Hung recognized and expressed gratitude to VFP for their important efforts. This is among the key elements that are fostering closer ties and increased understanding between the two nations.

Particularly since Vietnam and the US relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, there are numerous chances for collaboration and mutual assistance, particularly in resolving war legacies and advancing the economies of both countries.

Quang Tri is still having a lot of trouble getting over the effects of the war. As a result, he requested that VFP continue helping the province deal with the effects by clearing and managing explosives and mines, as well as by offering livelihood and medical assistance to victims of UXO and toxic chemicals.

Minh Duc – Linh Pham