On April 30, 2025, a moving and magnificent ceremony marked the 50th anniversary of Vietnam's reunification. The event was held in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, where tens of thousands of people gathered to celebrate this historic occasion. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a sense of pride and unity among the citizens.
The ceremony featured a parade that included military and police forces, as well as mass blocks of citizens. Notably, troops from China, Laos, and Cambodia participated, symbolizing the solidarity among nations in the region. The parade showcased 48 blocks of troops, each representing the dedication and hard work of the soldiers who had trained tirelessly for five months to prepare.
Among the highlights of the parade was the Military Music block, which included two rows carrying 10 kg drums, one row with 8 tuba horns weighing 14 kg, and two individuals carrying 19 kg helicon horns. The precision and discipline displayed by the troops left a lasting impression on the audience.
Meanwhile, in Hanoi, excitement was palpable as people lined up to receive a special supplement of the Nhan Dan newspaper, commemorating the same anniversary. The supplement, titled "Ho Chi Minh Campaign," was integrated with augmented reality (AR) technology, allowing readers to interact with historical content through their smartphones or tablets. This innovative approach aimed to engage the younger generation and deepen their understanding of Vietnam's rich history.
At the Nhan Dan headquarters, an interactive exhibition was organized to further commemorate the 50th anniversary of the South Liberation and national reunification. The exhibition featured 11 typical front pages of the Nhan Dan newspaper published on April 30 from 1975 to 2020. Each page served as a historical snapshot, capturing significant moments in Vietnam's journey towards peace and unity.
The exhibition, open to the public from April 23 to May 4, 2025, attracted considerable attention, especially from the youth. Visitors could explore the historical pages while also witnessing the vivid portrayal of key milestones in the Central Highlands Campaign, the Hue-Da Nang Campaign, and the historic Ho Chi Minh Campaign. The use of rare archival materials combined with modern 3D mapping technology offered an immersive experience, enabling attendees to relive the heroic atmosphere of April 1975.
One young visitor, Nguyen Minh Anh, 16, expressed her enthusiasm while waiting in line for the supplement. She shared, "I came here early because I wanted to get my hands on this special supplement. I think it’s a great opportunity for me and my friends to learn more about the significance of April 30, our country's history, and the great sacrifices made by previous generations."
In a notable twist, the Nhan Dan newspaper printed nearly 500,000 copies of the supplement, which were distributed free of charge across the country. This effort was not just about providing a publication; it was a heartfelt gift that reminded every Vietnamese citizen of the sacred values of peace, independence, and unity.
After creating a "fever" in Hanoi, the special supplements were quickly transported to Ho Chi Minh City to meet the demands of readers in the southern region. In Ho Chi Minh City, readers could receive the supplement at the Nhan Dan Newspaper Building on Pham Ngoc Thach Street and at another location on Ham Nghi Street.
The event surrounding the release of the supplement was more than a mere commemorative activity; it sparked a powerful ripple effect, particularly among the youth. The sight of long lines of young people eagerly awaiting their turn to receive the newspaper became a notable phenomenon, reflecting their deep interest in the nation's history.
Tran Van Hung, 67, shared his joy at witnessing the youth's enthusiasm. He remarked, "I am very happy to see young people lining up seriously to receive these newspapers. It shows that history still holds an important place in the hearts of the youth. This is a meaningful initiative by Nhan Dan."
This "fever" is not only a current moment but also a strong signal of how the glorious history of the nation continues to inspire and instill pride in the younger generation, especially when presented in a lively and relatable manner. Beyond being a mere publication, it serves as a continuation of the traditional narrative, providing valuable guidance for today's youth as they strive to build a future while cherishing the values of peace, independence, and unity that their ancestors fought so hard to establish.
As the parade in Ho Chi Minh City progressed, the sky lit up with the performance of fighter jets and helicopters, adding to the grandeur of the celebration. Each fighter jet released 48 flares near the Bitexco building, creating a spectacular display of lights that captivated onlookers.
The emotional intensity of the ceremony grew as the parade neared its conclusion. The warm interactions between soldiers and citizens, filled with handshakes and cheers, highlighted the bond between the military and the people, showcasing the strength of national unity.
As the soldiers completed their march, the atmosphere was filled with affection and gratitude from the public. Despite the exhaustion from the parade, the soldiers took time to engage with the crowd, capturing moments with photos and exchanging simple gifts as tokens of appreciation.
April 30, 2025, will remain a cherished memory for both the soldiers and the citizens of Vietnam. The day not only commemorated a significant historical event but also reinforced the importance of unity and collective pride in the nation’s journey towards peace and reconciliation.
