For ten days leading up to Vietnam’s 80th National Day military parade in Ba Dinh Square, a 40-year-old swimming coach named Dau Thi Thang became a familiar figure on the streets of Hanoi. Armed with nothing but a whistle and large plastic bags, she tirelessly collected trash and encouraged spectators to keep the capital clean.
From inspiration to action
Thang said the idea came to her after witnessing piles of litter left behind during a rehearsal on August 21. Moved by the sight of exhausted sanitation workers cleaning through the night, she decided to act.
“Amid the flags and flowers, every street looked so beautiful. I thought I had to do something to help preserve that,” she shared.
Whistle for trash collection
Starting August 23, Thang patrolled the streets of Quan Thanh, Thanh Nien, and Hung Vuong. Every few minutes, she blew her whistle and cheerfully called out: “Who has trash for me?” Instead of letting people throw waste on the ground, she personally collected bottles, plastic bags, and food containers.
Her friendliness eased the crowd, making people more comfortable to enjoy food and drinks while waiting hours for the parade. “Everyone should just enjoy the patriotic atmosphere—leave the trash to me,” she smiled.
Viral recognition and admiration
Videos of the “whistle woman” collecting trash quickly spread on social media, receiving tens of thousands of likes and comments praising her dedication. Some spectators initially mistook her for a sanitation worker, only to be moved when they realized she was volunteering on her own.
Beyond cleaning, she boosted the festive spirit by leading people in singing revolutionary songs, helping pass the long hours of waiting.
Helping veterans and connecting communities
Thang also supported veterans from across Vietnam who traveled to Hanoi for the parade. She guided elderly attendees to priority seating areas, shared her phone number for assistance, and even arranged free accommodations by connecting them with local families. With permission from Ba Dinh Sports Center, where she works, she opened the facility for veterans to rest and use amenities.
On September 2, after the grand parade ended and the streets were spotless, she stayed behind to escort a veteran to lunch and help him catch a bus back to Hai Phong.
A small act with big meaning
“To contribute even a small effort during such an important event for our country makes me truly happy,” Thang said.
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Source: Vietnam Insider