The scars of war extend far beyond the battlefield, leaving deep and lasting impacts on families for generations. Do Duc Diu, a former North Vietnamese soldier, is a living testament to this harsh reality.
Surviving the Vietnam War when many did not, Diu evaded the physical dangers of combat. However, his battle against Agent Orange, the toxic chemical used by the U.S. military, proved to be his true enemy. Unbeknownst to him at the time, this chemical would wreak havoc on his family's future.
Of his 15 children, only three survive today, and tragically, only one is considered healthy. This sole survivor found love and got married, but the shadow of Agent Orange reached even the next generation. Her granddaughter, unfortunately, could not escape the war's long-lasting effects.
The story of Do Duc Diu and his family underscores the profound human cost of the Vietnam War. It serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring consequences of chemical warfare and the resilience of those who endure its aftermath.
Reference(s):
Legacies of War: A Family Exposed to Agent Orange by U.S. Military
cgtn.com
