Nhan Ngoc Do

Nhan Do graduated from the National Military Academy of Dalat and became a lieutenant in the Vietnamese army in 1951. He was married to Tu Thi Nguyen in 1954. Nhan had a successful military career and held many positions during his active duty including: Lieutenant Colonel and Commander of the 12th Light Infantry Division, Director of the Vietnamese Ordnance Corps, and finally, Colonel at 34 years of age. He was also appointed Superintendent of the National Military Academy of Dalat and Deputy General Director of the Department of Military Political Training and Public Affairs. Later in his military career, in 1972, Nhan graduated from the International Management System at the Navy Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.

He was a dedicated Colonel and fought tirelessly and with bravery for Vietnam until April 30, 1975 when he was forced to escape after the Duong Van Minh government declared a cease-fire.

Nhan Do, his wife, and six children relocated to San Antonio, Texas in 1975, where they rebuilt their life. He opened a gas station and liquor store while caring for his family. Nhan was a devout Catholic and helped build the first Vietnamese Catholic community and church in San Antonio, Texas, and he was President of the Pastoral Council for 6 years. Nhan retired in 1997 and enjoyed this time with his wife, spending time with family and friends. He remained a dedicated member of the Vietnamese military community. He often confided to his children, "The time when I was the superintendent of the Academy was the golden period of my military career.” He maintained a close relationship with his former officers and cadets, and he attended many conventions and meetings throughout the United States, even in his older age.

Nhan Do, the eldest brother of 11 children, was admired and loved by his siblings for his strength and steadfast care for them. To his children, he was a benevolent, easy-going, and forgiving father who taught them the importance of love and family. To his grandchildren, he was the pillar of the extended family and a reminder of the strength and honor of their Vietnamese origins.

Nhan Do is survived by his children, Quang, Minh, Tram, Trang, Thach, and Vu and his grandchildren, Mimi, Audrey, Tommy, Matthew, Megan, Adrienne, Timothy, Ella, Rachel, Lauren, Dawn, Ethan, Stephen, and Rohan. He is also survived by his brother and sisters, Ngoan, Phuc, Hong, and Lan.

Now that he is gone, we will always remember the brother, the father, and the honorable grandfather who made the Do family and his native country proud.