A farewell marked by North-South emotions
The grand celebration in Ho Chi Minh City came to a close, leaving behind a brilliant milestone in the nation’s momentous events. Following the event, the functional and parade forces began their journey back the North, traveling the Bien Hoa - Dieu Tri - Da Nang - Vinh route, with Hanoi as the final stop before returning to their units.
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Local people bidding farewell for parade forces from North |
At the see-off ceremony on May 1, Deputy Chief of the General Department of Political Affairs of the Vietnam People’s Army and head of the delegation Lieutenant General Truong Thien To congratulated and praised the officers and soldiers for their high responsibility and unwavering resolve in performing their assigned tasks, leaving a deep impression on the public and international friends. He also reminded relevant units to ensure troops’ health, food safety, and close coordination throughout the journey and expressed his sincere thanks to the authorities, people, and armed forces of Dong Nai province for their warm reception.
From early afternoon, many people gathered at the Bien Hoa Station to see the troops off. Fresh flowers, fluttering national flags, tearful eyes, and heartfelt handshakes all showed the military-civilian ties. The people of Bien Hoa city also extended their thanks to the officers and soldiers of the Vietnam People’s Army and relevant forces.
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Lieutenant General Truong Thien To talk with local people and troops. |
Ms. Dao Thi Thuy, a local resident of Hoa An ward, said, “This is the first time in my life I have witnessed such a solemn troop send-off. I stayed until the very last moment to convey my deepest respect and gratitude to them.”
Meanwhile, Mrs. Nguyen Thi Tuyen, a historical witness from Bien Hoa city recalled, “When I was a child, a B-52 destroyed the factory where my parents worked and left only a crater where our home once stood. Though we survived, my family was scattered across evacuation zones. The value of ‘peace’ is immense because it was earned with blood, sweat, and sacrifice across generations and by the whole nation.”
Lai Thi My Ngoc, a Youth Union member from Trung Dung ward, shared, “Even though we only met the soldiers a few times, I had to come today to say goodbye. They were not only impressive during the parade, but also friendly and had high determination to accomplish their special mission.”
Tran Ngoc Anh, a student at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, wore Vietnamese ao dai (traditional long dress) to attend the see-off ceremony. She said, “This is my way of expressing gratitude and admiration for the officers and war veterans.”
Promoting heroic tradition
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Local people and children express emotions to parade troops from North. |
After the ceremony, the trains carrying the parade forces departed from the gathering site. Along the roads, locals stood waving goodbye in a warm and respectful atmosphere. Red flags with yellow stars fluttered in the night, symbolizing strength and unity accompanying the soldiers back to their units.
Private First Class Le Dinh Chien, leader of Squad 4 in the Armored Troop Formations, said, “My comrades and I were deeply touched by the warm welcome and heartfelt encouragement from the Southern people. From the bottom of my heart, I want to say: I love the Southern people. I love the Vietnamese people.”
Non-commissioned Major Nguyen Hong Giang noted that local authorities and people everywhere warmly welcomed them. The see-off was festive and full of joy. This is a unforgettable memory in his military life.
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Parade troops before departure |
Mr. Vu Sy, in charge of Carriage No.3 on train SE64, shared, “Being assigned to transport the parade forces was my honor. My colleagues and I did our best to prepare and serve the soldiers attentively, especially in food safety, to maintain their health. I am so proud to make a small contribution to the success of the special ceremony.”
The journey ahead carries not only determined footsteps and national pride, but also the deep love of Southern people and the soldiers’ solemn promise to uphold the traditions of Uncle Ho’s soldiers so as to be ready for the cause of national protection and construction in the current context.
Translated by Minh Anh