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Cambodia Diary
12-18 January , 2004
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Hello! My name is Phang Phall. I was born in 1968 in Ou Takaom village, Svay Por commune, Sang Kae district, Battambang province, Cambodia. As for my wife, her name is Kuy Veasna, 33 years- old. We have two children, and both of them are female.
During 1979- 1986, I was learning in primary school, and due to my poor living condition I decided to drop school and later on joint the army in division number196 until 2001. In the year of 2001 most of soldiers including myself were demobilized from the arm force to be farmers. At that time I had no other mean of earning a better living besides planting rice with my wife and my daughters. With my unfavorable condition, I had committed to myself to work hard once I have got a job.
Fortunately, on 26 March 2003 I was fortunate enough to pass the interview test offered by the HALO Trust senior management representative as a deminer, and there was a preference of demobilized soldiers as me. Not before long, I was sent to Kdeb Thma, HALO training center to learn how to demine. As soon as the course had completed, I was sent to work as a deminer in section number 63.
This week I have been working in Chamkar Kor Dyke 3 minefield, Thma Puok location. My section commander is Mr. Chheuy Soeun, and my field officer is Mr. Liv Rina. They both are very strict to deminers, but I work hard every day. In such a spring season, the weather is nice- not so hot. I'm very happy clearing mines though I have to work under the sun light for long hours. I have so far found 10 anti- personnel- mines. Those are in types 69 and PMD6. With this I feel happy since it means I have saved 10 people from mine- threat. Everyday after 3 O'clock, we deminers clean our accommodation, wash our clothes, or play volley ball together. It is nice for us to stay together in HALO accommodation with security guaranteed, and the supervisors are kind.
My living is now getting better, and my wife and my daughters can meet with the basic need. Before ending my diary, I would like to thank very much to the HALO Trust and all donors who have supported this demining programme, especially AAR/TBS. I hope that AAR/TBS will continue the support.
Best wishes,
Phang Phall
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