From the moment he arrived in Hanoi, the Lao military officer felt the festive atmosphere that filled the city in preparation for the celebration and military parade. “From main streets to small alleys, every corner was adorned with flags, flowers, banners, and slogans. The national flags fluttered in the wind, linking rooftops and windows together to create a picture that was both solemn and vibrant,” he shared.
The reporter recalled that, as a child in Laos, he saw Vietnamese communities there commemorate Vietnam’s National Day. Later, while studying in Vietnam, he could witness several formal celebrations. Yet this year’s assignment, he said, was the most profound experience of all, allowing him to not only see the pride and joy of the people but also to feel the strong sense of national unity and the deep gratitude they carry toward their nation’s heroic past.
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First Lieutenant Soupasith Sisomphaeng, reporter of Lao Army Television |
“Regardless of age or gender, many Vietnamese wore shirts with the red flag and yellow star, their faces glowing with happiness. They willingly traveled long distances and waited for hours just to be part of this historic moment. Some families brought along three or even four generations to watch the parade together, which was truly meaningful. I was especially moved by how sincerely they honor and remember the sacrifices of their forefathers,” he said.
As part of his work, Sisomphaeng filed numerous reports and images for audiences in Laos, capturing vivid scenes of Vietnam as a resilient and indomitable nation that is modernizing and integrating into the world. He believed Lao viewers could see both Vietnam’s dynamic development and the powerful patriotism displayed by its people during the celebration.
“National Day is not only a source of pride for the Vietnamese people but also a shared joy for the Lao people,” he noted. “I feel extremely honored to cover such a historic anniversary. It is a chance to highlight the close bond between our two countries and our two militaries. It also helps me gain deeper insight into Vietnam’s glorious history, the immense sacrifices, and the achievements of its people. The solemn, warm, and pride-filled atmosphere moved me greatly, making me feel as though I were sharing in the joy of my own homeland.”
The reporter captured many emotional moments during the event. “When the Lao People’s Army contingent marched past, the cheers from the crowd, the warm greetings, and the sight of Vietnam’s national flags waving brought tears to my eyes. I have reported on many events before, but the affection the Vietnamese people showed toward the Lao delegation was especially profound. It was living proof of the faithful solidarity and enduring ties between our two nations. I believe that when these images are shared, the Lao people will clearly feel the spirit of Vietnamese patriotism and their deep affection for Laos.”
In addition to the warmth of the people, First Lieutenant Sisomphaeng expressed gratitude for the support he received from the organizers and fellow reporters throughout his assignment in Vietnam. He was confident that this trip would leave him with unforgettable memories while also serving as valuable material to present a beautiful, friendly, and heroic image of Vietnam to Lao audiences.
He also expressed hope for future opportunities to return to Vietnam, to continue exchanges and contribute in his own way to strengthening the enduring friendship between Laos and Vietnam.
Translated by Tran Hoai