On February 3, former volleyball player Pham Thi Yen received a decision to promote her rank from Lieutenant Colonel to Senior Colonel. This is the highest rank for professional soldiers.
The promotion is a recognition of Pham Thi Yen's tireless contributions to Army sports, always being an exemplary soldier and completing her tasks well.
Speaking to Lao Dong on February 6, the former striker born in 1985 said: "I received information about being promoted in 2024 but waited until the beginning of this year to receive the decision. The good news coming to me at the beginning of the new year is also a very good thing, especially when the whole country is celebrating the 95th anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (February 3, 1930 - February 3, 2025).
I joined the army on March 10, 2002, and have been in the army for 23 years now. It has been a long and meaningful journey, from being a soldier, going through rookie training, to wearing the epaulettes on my shoulders, and now being promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.
I was promoted to military rank when I was still quite young, younger than the entire army. It was an honor and pride for a journey since I entered the military environment, diligently trained, dedicated and matured."
The beauty born in 1985 confided that no matter what position she holds, whether as an athlete or a coach, being trained in a military environment has helped her improve herself every day.
"As a soldier, I always realize that I have to live and work with discipline and responsibility. The army is also my love. This environment motivates me to strive every day. After being promoted, I need to strive, train and contribute more," said Pham Thi Yen.
At the age of U40, Pham Thi Yen is considered a rare "rose" of Vietnamese women's volleyball. Because, she has achieved great success in her career but has always kept her love life and private life secret.
The former Ha Nam striker is still focusing on her work, prioritizing volleyball. Recently, she publicly announced that she has a boyfriend, but his identity has not been revealed. Pham Thi Yen confided that now, she feels very happy with what she has.
"My current boyfriend has always accompanied me in every event and milestone. Since he heard the news that I was promoted and received the decision in early spring, he congratulated me and also looked forward to it, excitedly with me.
The day I officially received the decision, he also made thoughtful preparations, especially to congratulate me privately. I feel grateful for what is present in life," the beauty born in 1985 confided.
