Vietnam marks 50 years of reunification with grandiose parade
The grand ceremony honors the victory recorded on April 30, 1975 to reunite the nation as one.
THE HANOI TIMES — In the presence of Party and state leaders, Vietnamese Heroic Mothers, war heroes, and war veterans, a solemn celebration was held in Ho Chi Minh City on April 30 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification.
The ceremony takes place in Ho Chi Minh City on the morning of April 30. Photo: Vietnam News Agency
The streets of Ho Chi Minh City were filled with flags and flowers. Thousands of people, including officials, soldiers, and residents from all walks of life, gathered at Thong Nhat (Reunification) Square and along Le Duan Street to celebrate this historic occasion.
A special art performance, "Radiant Homeland of Vietnam," opened the event, followed by a powerful drum show, "Epic of Total Victory," performed by 1,000 students from the Drum Art Troupe of the People's Police Academy. Next, artists and soldiers from the Vietnam People’s Army performed “The Joy of a Reunified Nation,” along with other presentations that highlighted the nation's heroic journey toward independence, reunification, and development.
Then a majestic parade unfolded, commencing with a flag salute and a resounding volley of twenty-one cannon shots. It featured more than 13,000 people, including military forces, militias, self-defense groups, police, and representatives from all walks of life. They were joined by troops from China, Laos, and Cambodia.
A display of air power ensued, showcasing Su-30MK2 fighter jets, Yak-130 multi-role training and combat aircraft, as well as Mi-171, Mi-17, and Mi-8 military helicopters.
Below are some moments from the celebration.
The twenty-one cannon shots fired by the military honor guard at Bach Dang Wharf in District 1.
The event is attended by leaders of the Party, the State, and the Government, as well as representatives from other nations.
General Secretary To Lam delivers opening remarks at the event.
The special art performance titled “Radiant Homeland of Vietnam”.
The Ho Chi Minh City Committee for Major Anniversaries coordinates the performance in collaboration with the Ministries of Culture, Sports and Tourism; National Defense; and Public Security.
The opening performance features a powerful drum show titled “Epic of Total Victory”, performed by 1,000 students from the Drum Art Troupe of the People's Police Academy.
The drum performance titled "Epic of Total Victory".
