A Late-Night Thought That Sparked It All
Last night, I found myself sketching a small red star on paper. Just a star, simple yet powerful, glowing against a bright red background. I paused, realizing that this symbol, our national flag, carries the weight of eighty years of struggle, resilience, and dreams.
In that moment, I felt an immense gratitude for being born in this era where I can freely celebrate Vietnam’s 80th National Day with joy rather than fear, with pride rather than uncertainty.
80 Years of Independence: More Than Just a Number
It’s almost impossible to wrap your head around what “80 years” really means. On September 2, 1945, President Hồ Chí Minh stood at Ba Đình Square in Hanoi and declared our independence. The words he spoke marked a new dawn for Vietnam, a dawn built on sacrifice, unity, and an unshakable belief in freedom.
Since then, we’ve lived through wars, hardships, economic reforms, and incredible growth. Each decade added a new layer to our identity, reminding us that independence isn’t just something handed down, it’s something we renew every single day.
A Celebration in Full Bloom
1. The Unforgettable Parade
This year’s 80th anniversary was extraordinary. At Ba Đình Square, nearly 16,000 soldiers marched in unison. Tanks, artillery, amphibious vehicles, all showcasing Vietnam’s progress and strength. Above us, jets painted streaks across the sky, helicopters carried giant flags, and the air vibrated with determination.
For the first time ever, we also witnessed a naval parade off Cam Ranh Bay, where warships, submarines, and seaplanes demonstrated the country’s maritime defense. It was broadcast live nationwide – an unforgettable reminder that Vietnam’s sovereignty stretches across both land and sea.
2. A Sea of Red and Yellow
From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, and every town in between, the streets became rivers of red and yellow. Families, students, and workers all wore shirts with the golden star. Kids waved tiny flags while sipping iced tea or boba, proving that patriotism doesn’t have to be stiff. It can be joyful, youthful, and modern.
Even balconies, old colonial-style houses, sleek new high-rises, small family homes were draped with flags. That unity in colors stitched generations together.
3. A Wave of Symbolic Acts
To mark this special milestone, the government distributed 100,000 VND to each citizen, a gesture that totaled $380 million. It wasn’t just about money. It was a message: every Vietnamese counts, every life is part of the nation’s heartbeat.
Alongside that, nearly 13,920 prisoners were granted amnesty, including foreigners. Forgiveness and renewal became part of the day’s story, showing that independence is also about compassion.
4. Words That Get to the Heart
Party leader To Lam addressed the nation with powerful words, envisioning Vietnam as a “powerful, prosperous, and happy nation by 2045.” He called this vision “an oath of honor before history.” That phrase hit me deeply. It reminded me that independence isn’t just about the past. It’s a promise for the future.
Why This Matters to Us
A Living Legacy
Our grandparents and great-grandparents endured sacrifices we can hardly imagine. Yet today, we inherit their courage as freedom. When we stand under the flag, we’re not just remembering history. We’re living it, continuing the story.
Empowered Youth, Proud Citizens
Seeing young people celebrate with creativity, from painting stars on their cheeks to choreographing flash mobs, proved something essential. We, the youth, are not detached from tradition. We are shaping how patriotism looks in this modern era – joyful, colorful, and full of pride.
Unity
Vietnam is diverse in ethnicities, dialects, landscapes. But on National Day, all these threads are woven together into one tapestry. Whether it’s a fisherman in the Mekong Delta, a student in Hue, or a businesswoman in Hanoi, we all share the same heartbeat of pride.
Looking Back: From Hardship to Hope
It’s important to pause and remember how far we’ve come.
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The Struggles: Post-independence, our nation fought two brutal wars to protect sovereignty. Those decades tested our resilience beyond limits.
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The Rebuilding: The Đổi Mới reforms in 1986 transformed Vietnam into one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Poverty rates fell dramatically, and opportunities expanded.
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The Present: Today, Vietnam is known as a manufacturing hub, with Apple, Samsung, and Nike tied to our supply chains. Our culture, food, fashion, and music are gaining global recognition.
This journey isn’t just about economics. It’s about confidence. About a nation that can stand tall on the world stage while holding close its traditions.
Looking Forward: The Road to 2045
Challenges remain, climate change, demographic shifts, global trade tensions, and sovereignty issues in the South China Sea. But this is where our unity shines.
To Lam’s vision of Vietnam in 2045 – a nation that is powerful, prosperous, and happy – isn’t just political rhetoric. It’s a call for each of us to contribute. Whether through innovation, entrepreneurship, volunteering, or simply by living with pride, we are all part of this roadmap.
What This Day Taught Me Personally
As I walked through the streets today, watching families pose for photos under flags, I felt something I don’t often say out loud: I’m lucky. Lucky to have been born in this time, when Vietnam is blooming. Lucky to enjoy peace while still carrying the strength of history in my veins.
This 80th National Day reminded me to be proud not just of the big parades and speeches, but of the small, everyday freedoms – being able to dream, create, and live openly.
When I think back to that red star I painted on paper, I realise it was a promise. A thank-you to the past. A reflection of today. A prayer for tomorrow.
Vietnam’s 80th National Day wasn’t just a celebration. It was a pulse. A heartbeat telling us: “We are here. We are proud. And we are ready for the future.”
So carry that pride with you. Let it shine in your eyes, your work, your dreams. Because Vietnam’s story is still being written and we are the authors.