On the morning of August 17, 2025, a wave of solemnity swept through Hanoi as Vietnam’s highest leaders gathered to mark two significant milestones: the 80th anniversary of the Traditional Day of the People's Public Security and the 20th anniversary of the All-People’s Security Protection Festival. According to Dân trí and Nhân Dân, the commemorations were not just ceremonial—they were a profound expression of national gratitude, a reaffirmation of values, and a call to unity in the face of new challenges.
The day began with a distinguished delegation, including General Secretary To Lam, former General Secretary Nong Duc Manh, President Luong Cuong, former President Truong Tan Sang, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and former Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, among others. These leaders, joined by members of the National Assembly, government officials, and representatives from ministries and central agencies, made their way to the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh. There, they laid wreaths and offered incense, paying their respects to the revered leader whose vision and sacrifice laid the foundation for modern Vietnam. The mood was one of reverence, as the delegation bowed their heads in memory of Ho Chi Minh’s immense contributions to the nation’s struggle for independence, unity, and peace.
But the commemoration did not end at the mausoleum. The delegation continued to the Bac Son Memorial Monument, situated just opposite the mausoleum near the historic Thang Long Imperial Citadel and Ba Dinh Hall. Here, they offered incense and placed a wreath inscribed with the words, “Forever grateful to the Heroes and Martyrs.” According to Dân trí, the atmosphere was deeply moving, as the leaders honored those who had given their lives for the nation’s freedom. The Bac Son Memorial Monument stands as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of countless individuals who, in the face of adversity, chose duty over personal safety for the greater good of the country.
The ceremonies were not limited to Vietnamese dignitaries. Nhân Dân reported that the event drew a broad spectrum of participants, including heroes of the armed forces, labor heroes, senior officers of the People's Public Security, and even representatives from neighboring ASEAN countries and international diplomatic missions. Their presence underscored the importance of international solidarity and the enduring bonds forged through shared struggles for peace and security.
Central to the day’s events was a grand ceremony organized by the Central Executive Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the National Assembly, the President, the Government, and the Central Mass Front Committee. Here, the People’s Public Security forces were awarded the Golden Star Medal, Vietnam’s highest honor, for their extraordinary achievements in safeguarding national security and contributing to the country’s development. General Secretary To Lam delivered the commemorative address, recalling the “glorious tradition” of the People’s Public Security and the “silent but heroic sacrifices” made by its members over the decades.
“This is an occasion for the Party, State, and people to express profound gratitude and sincere appreciation for the immense contributions and sacrifices of the People’s Public Security forces,” To Lam declared, as quoted by Nhân Dân. He emphasized that the values forged through decades of struggle—pride, resolve, and a sense of responsibility—remain as relevant as ever. “We forever remember the merits of the heroic martyrs, comrades, and compatriots who bravely fought and sacrificed for the independence and freedom of the Fatherland, for socialism, for national security, and for the peaceful and happy life of the people.”
To Lam also paid special tribute to President Ho Chi Minh, describing him as the “great leader, the founder, organizer, and teacher of the heroic People’s Public Security forces.” The General Secretary’s words were not mere formality; they echoed the deep-seated respect that underpins Vietnamese political culture and the enduring legacy of Ho Chi Minh’s teachings.
In his address, To Lam outlined the challenges and opportunities facing Vietnam in a rapidly changing world. “The current global and regional context presents both great opportunities and new challenges to national security,” he noted. He called for the rapid development of the People’s Public Security into a force that is “truly revolutionary, regular, elite, and modern,” emphasizing the need for political, ideological, organizational, and ethical strength. To Lam’s vision is clear: the security forces must be disciplined, technologically adept, and unwaveringly loyal to the nation and its people.
He further stressed the importance of the “All-People’s Security Protection Festival,” describing it as a “vibrant political and social initiative” that has, over the past 20 years, become deeply embedded in community life. The festival, he explained, has awakened patriotism and civic responsibility, transforming every family, neighborhood, and workplace into a “fortress of security and order.” This grassroots approach, To Lam argued, is the bedrock of Vietnam’s national defense—what he called the “people’s security posture” and the “all-people’s national defense posture,” which together form an “impregnable wall against all dangers and challenges.”
The General Secretary did not shy away from the necessity of ongoing reform. He urged the public security leadership to “strengthen political and ideological education, tighten discipline, and resolutely combat corruption, waste, and negativity within the ranks.” He called for a professional, modern, and humane force, always placing the interests of the people and the nation above all else. “Integrity and discipline are the backbone, professionalism and modernity are the muscles, and humanity and closeness to the people are the heart of the force,” To Lam asserted.
Looking ahead, To Lam expressed confidence in the People’s Public Security’s ability to meet any challenge. “With a glorious tradition, firm political bravery, intelligence, and dedication, and with the support of the people, the force will continue to excellently fulfill all tasks assigned by the Party, State, and people,” he affirmed.
The ceremony also featured an artistic program, “80 Years – The Glory of the People’s Public Security of Vietnam,” bringing to life the force’s storied past and its role in shaping the nation’s future. Attendees heard from veteran officers and young members alike, each sharing their passion, commitment, and sense of duty to the country and its citizens.
As the commemorations drew to a close, the message was unmistakable: gratitude for the past, pride in the present, and determination for the future. Vietnam’s People’s Public Security, forged in hardship and sustained by unity, remains at the heart of the nation’s quest for peace, security, and prosperity.
