War veterans protect forests

Trinh Van Ngo is the head of War Veterans Association, Quang Trach District, Quang Binh Province. He has participated in forest protection activities for 25 years. Ngo and his War Veterans Association are in charge of dozens of protected forests in the region. As a result, invasive inland sand and erosion are less of a concern. Most impressive of all, these veterans are volunteers.

Trinh Van Ngo said: "Our War Veterans Association mobilizes members to get involved. We divide into teams and prevent locals from cutting down trees. As volunteers, we do not ask for payment in return".

Besides protecting forests, their association donates money for new trees to replace fallen ones. These acts have greatly improved forest protection awareness for local residents.  

Pham Van Trung, Resident in Quang Trach District, Quang Binh Province, said: "The association helps us understand that willow trees are for erosion control, shade, or shelter if anything happens. Before, we cut trees down illegally, but we don’t do it anymore".

The War Veterans Association and their forest protection work have made significant progress: They have helped local residents create sustainable production, and have enhanced their sense of responsibility toward the region’s development.