The given names, then, follow the family name. Like in some parts of the U.S., there are some people who are known by two names, said together. It seems even more confusing to me when it comes to the women. However, there does not seem to be a great need to, except possibly in the case of older widows, do anything other than called her by her given name. I am still working on that one.
Most names are real Vietnamese words which have meanings.
We are told that parents purposely choose names that convey something they see or want in their child. Mai is the name of a popular yellow flower. Come and join us in serving. It seems to still be widely believed that Americans, especially, are rich. In a sense we certainly are when compared to many people around the world.