On the afternoon of 28/1, representatives from the People's Committee of Hoa Hiep Ward, Phu Yen province, along with the Ward Military Command, presented a commendation certificate and a reward to Khang at Nguyen Van Linh High School.
According to the school and local authorities, Khang was the first to approach and assist First Lieutenant pilot Dinh Thanh Trung after the pilot parachuted to the ground following the Yak-130 training aircraft incident.
Earlier that morning, First Lieutenant Dinh Thanh Trung, from Air Regiment 940, Air Force Officer School, Air Defense - Air Force Service, was piloting a Yak-130 aircraft for a scheduled training exercise. After nearly 20 minutes of flight, the aircraft experienced a technical malfunction and lost communication.
 |
Nguyen Thanh Khang was awarded for his timely assistance to the parachuting pilot. Photo: Nguyet Nhi. |
Nguyen Thanh Khang was awarded for his timely assistance to the parachuting pilot. Photo: Nguyet Nhi.
The pilot attempted to address the issue but could not resolve the malfunction and was forced to steer the aircraft towards Hon Vinh mountain (Dong Hoa ward) to avoid residential areas. Once a suitable location was identified, First Lieutenant Trung activated his parachute and landed in Hoa Hiep Ward.
At that time, Khang was at home looking after his sibling when he heard a very loud aircraft noise, followed by a strong impact sound behind his house. Rushing out to investigate, the student discovered the pilot with facial injuries, sitting near a tree, next to his parachute.
Khang helped First Lieutenant Trung into his house, provided a pillow for him to rest, and offered initial assistance. Minutes later, military personnel arrived at the scene and transported the pilot to Phu Yen General Hospital for treatment. First Lieutenant Dinh Thanh Trung's health is currently stable.
Local authorities lauded Khang's actions as quick-witted and humane, contributing to the timely assistance of the distressed pilot and demonstrating a spirit of responsibility and compassion within the community.
Bui Toan
