Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thi Hong Quyen, Head of the Department of General Internal Medicine at Military Hospital 5 under Amy Corps 12, exemplifies Vietnam’s dedication to peacekeeping and humanitarian service.
Born in Hanoi’s Thanh Tri District, Quyen dreamed of becoming a military doctor. After graduating from the Military Medical Academy, she was posted to the northern province of Ninh Binh, where she built her career and family with fellow officer Major Pham Phuc Loc.
In 2021, Quyen was selected for a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Abyei, a conflict zone between Sudan and South Sudan.
Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thi Hong Quyen
Appointed Director of Vietnam’s Level-1 Field Hospital and Chairwoman of the Women’s Union under the Engineering Company Rotation 1, she faced intense challenges, extreme heat, threats of violence, and limited resources. With her husband recently returned from duty, she could focus on the mission.
Despite hardships, Quyen and her 11-member team provided medical care for both peacekeepers and local residents. She treated malaria cases, worked in remote jungle camps, and supported field missions under constant threat. Her team organized free clinics for 400 people, improved drainage systems, drilled wells, repaired schools, and built classrooms for underprivileged children.
Lt. Col. Nguyen Thi Hong Quyen during a medical outreach session for local residents in Abyei.
Returning to Vietnam, Quyen participated in a multilateral peacekeeping exercise and was appointed department head in 2024. She earned a certificate of merit and the title “Outstanding Female Officer.”
Proud of their work and children’s achievements, Quyen and her husband continue to serve with dedication.
Lt. Col. Nguyen Thi Hong Quyen (center) represents Vietnam’s Level-1 Field Hospital in presenting medical supplies to Abyei Hospital.
Sharing about her journey, Quyen said: “It is an honor and a pride to serve in a unit with such a strong tradition. We are committed to upholding that legacy by continuing to serve the Army and the people with all our heart.”
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VNQD