HANOI, Sept 2 (AFP) – Vietnam marked the 80th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence with the largest public gathering in the nation’s history. Nearly 40,000 soldiers and civilians joined a grand parade in Hanoi early Tuesday, recalling the moment in 1945 when revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh proclaimed the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and ended French colonial rule.
Helicopters and fighter jets roared across the capital’s skies, carrying national flags and banners, as millions of spectators lined the streets.
Veteran Pham Thanh Van, 78, wearing a uniform decorated with medals from the war against American forces, reflected near Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum: “This will be my last memory. Do not forget us. Independence has brought prosperity; our struggle was worth it.”
The ceremony began with a speech by Hanoi’s top leader To Lam, who paid tribute to Vietnam’s forefathers, praising the nation’s journey from colony to a united, modern state. Among the distinguished guests were Zhao Leji, Chairman of China’s National People’s Congress, former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, and Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
The two-hour event featured Vietnamese troops alongside Chinese and Russian contingents, artillery salutes, wreath-laying ceremonies, and honor guards.
“This parade shows Vietnam’s strength and hospitality, reflecting our deep patriotism,” said 34-year-old spectator Tran Nguyen Trung Chien.
Source: AFP.