Vietnamese men honored in Japan for rescuing children from sea

Tong Manh Tuan and Pham Quoc Dat received certificates of commendation at a ceremony held at the Tsu City Fire Department, according to the Vietnam News Agency (VNA). 

Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Pham Quang Hieu attended the event and presented the awards.

On August 11, Tuan and Dat were at a beach in Mie when they heard cries for help and saw two children being pulled away from the shore by strong waves, VNA reported. 

The two men entered the water and brought the children back to safety. 

The children had been approximately 100 meters from shore at the time, facing strong currents and receding tides.

Officials said the rescue was difficult due to weather conditions. 

Katsuda Takanori, head of the Naka Fire Department in Tsu, said the incident could have ended in tragedy without the men's intervention.

Takumi Ino, director of the Tsu City Fire Department, said the two men saved lives and expressed gratitude on behalf of the children's families.

Ambassador Hieu said the act demonstrated solidarity and contributed to bilateral friendship.

The incident has been reported in local media and acknowledged by Japanese authorities.