With outstanding academic achievements and numerous award-winning scientific research projects at both university and national levels, Senior Sergeant Dong The Long, a cadet of Class DH54A (Branch 4, Vietnam Military Medical University), stands out as a model figure among the youth of the armed forces. In the disciplined environment of the military, he has affirmed his individual capabilities while inspiring a spirit of dedication and service among his peers.

Striving for Academic Excellence

Few people know that Long’s motivation to pursue a career as a military doctor stems from deeply personal and emotional experiences.

Born into a family where both parents were busy with work, Long spent much of his childhood under the care and guidance of his grandmother. A turning point came when he was in Grade 11, as his grandmother was diagnosed with terminal cancer and underwent chemotherapy.

The days spent caring for her in the hospital left a lasting impression on Long, particularly the image of devoted and compassionate doctors who gave their all for their patients. From that moment, the young student began to nurture his dream of becoming a military physician-dedicated to saving lives.

After years of hard work at Chu Van An High School in Hanoi, Long successfully gained admission to the Vietnam Military Medical University, marking the beginning of a new journey.

Senior Sergeant Dong The Long – Outstanding Young Face of the Armed Forces in 2025

From his very first days at the academy, he set clear goals and remained steadfast in his studies and training.

Beside academic classes, Long actively prepared lessons in advance, engaged in discussions with lecturers, sought out additional reference materials, and, importantly, focused on linking theory with practice. During hospital internships, he carefully observed and learned from experienced doctors to strengthen his knowledge and professional skills. Thanks to his relentless efforts, he consistently achieved excellent academic results throughout his years of study.

Making a Mark in Scientific Research

In addition to his academic excellence, Senior Sergeant Dong The Long has distinguished himself in scientific research.

Despite initial challenges due to limited specialized knowledge and practical experience, Long and his teammates boldly undertook their first research project: “Developing Study Plans for Cadets of the Vietnam Military Medical University under the New Training Program.” The project won Third Prize at the university-level Student Scientific Research Conference.

Building on this early success, Long continued to participate in numerous projects with significant scientific and practical value. Notably, his research titled “Blood Lactate Level Changes and Their Association with Mortality in Patients with Multiple Organ Failure” won First Prize at the university level and Second Prize at the 2023 National Student Science and Technology Awards, presented by the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union.

He also co-authored the project “Establishing a Protocol to Increase Fetal Fraction in Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening Tests”, which earned Second Prize at the university level and an Outstanding Award at the 2024 National Youth Conference on Medical Science and Technology. These projects have been highly regarded for their practical applications and contributions to treatment outcomes.

In the 2024-2025 academic year, Long and his research team carried out another significant study: “Assessment of Sperm Count, Motility, and Morphology in Infertile Men with Y Chromosome Microdeletions.” This work holds profound humanitarian significance, contributing to the treatment of infertility-particularly among military families. The project won First Prize at the university level and the national First Prize awarded by the Ministry of Education and Training, earning Long the prestigious “Creative Youth Badge” in recognition of his contributions as a young scientist.

Active in Youth Union and Student Movements

As a Youth Union officer, Senior Sergeant Dong The Long has consistently demonstrated initiative and creativity.

He has actively advised unit commanders on developing effective learning and scientific research movements, implementing practical models such as “peer learning partnerships” and promoting exemplary individuals.

Thanks to his contributions, his unit has maintained an annual participation rate of over 40% in scientific research and achieved strong results in academic competitions, including the Military Mathematics and English Olympiads.

In recognition of his efforts, Long was honored as an “Outstanding Youth Union Officer” in 2021 and received a Certificate of Merit from the General Department of Politics for his contributions to the movement “Military Youth Cultivating Virtue and Talent, Worthy of Uncle Ho’s Soldiers” during the 2022-2025 period. He was also named one of the Armed Forces’ Outstanding Young Faces in 2025.

Senior Sergeant Dong The Long exemplifies the modern military medical cadet: intelligent, resilient, ethical, and driven by a strong desire to serve. Looking ahead, he remains committed to continuous learning, advancing his professional expertise and research capabilities, actively engaging in youth movements, and excelling in every assigned mission.

His journey stands as a powerful testament to perseverance, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Author: Y Duc Translated by Minh Phuong