After watching a video of his daughter making an offensive gesture toward the A80 convoy carrying soldiers during the upcoming National Day parade, Mr. N.B.C. from Xuan Mai, Hanoi, said he was deeply disappointed but emphasized that his daughter must take responsibility for her actions.

His daughter had just started attending Lam Nghiep High School two days before the incident. The gesture was made while she was riding a motorbike with two classmates, none of whom wore helmets.

According to Mr. C., when confronted, his daughter explained that she saw soldiers on the convoy pointing toward the crowd, and in an attempt to “tease back,” she and her friends raised an obscene gesture.

“What saddened me most is that on the same morning, I stood with my son proudly waving at the convoy, feeling honored and patriotic. Yet my daughter acted carelessly at such a sensitive time for the nation,” Mr. C. said.

Students apologize, parents and school respond

That evening, the family reported to the local police, filed a statement, and accepted administrative penalties. The next morning, they also met with the school’s board.

“At the meeting, the school warned and disciplined the students. They cried, apologized, and admitted their reckless mistake, asking for forgiveness and a chance to change,” Mr. C. said.

As a father, he stressed he would not defend his child but hoped the school would give her the opportunity to continue studying. “If they continue to repeat such actions, the school can expel them. During this time, our family will cooperate fully with the school in discipline and education,” he added.

Since the incident, his daughter has isolated herself, too ashamed to leave the house. Online criticism has been harsh, leaving her regretful and distressed. Her father has temporarily confiscated her phone to help her reflect on her behavior.

School leadership: A chance to reform

Le Khanh Toan, principal of Lam Nghiep High School, confirmed that the students admitted their mistake, expressed remorse, and asked for a chance to correct themselves.

“The disciplinary council will review the case carefully, ensuring the punishment is fair and educational, while also guiding the students on their responsibilities as citizens during such a significant historical time,” he said.

Earlier, as reported by VietNamNet, a video circulating online showed three students riding a motorbike without helmets, wearing military-style clothing, and making obscene gestures as the A80 convoy passed through Xuan Mai, Hanoi.

The local police summoned the students, handled traffic violations, issued warnings, and informed the school. The motorbike was also temporarily confiscated.

Thuy Nga