Amidst the space filled with flags and flowers, the resounding sound of military music and loud marching calls, the ceremony fully depicted a heroic chapter of history with vivid images and sacred emotions, igniting pride in the hearts of millions of Vietnamese people.
More than 10,000 people from the parade force, after passing the Independence Palace (District 1), spread out in many directions of the center of Ho Chi Minh City.
From 8am, the sky of Ho Chi Minh City lit up when dozens of fighter jets and helicopters from Bien Hoa airport entered the city center. The powerful Su-30MK2s roared in the air, performed spectacular aerobatics, and then dropped two rounds of chaff, creating brilliant streaks of light like a greeting from the sky to the national festival. Each plane carried 48 heat traps - modern defense equipment - that simultaneously burned, highlighting the red flag with a yellow star fluttering in the sky.
The national flag flutters in the sky
The Su-30MK2 squadron parted the clouds, opening the parade with an eye-catching acrobatic performance and releasing a glowing heat trap in mid-air.
On the ground, crowds of people poured into the central streets early, immersing themselves in the solemn and exciting atmosphere. The applause, cheers of joy combined with the rhythmic drumbeat of the military band opened a spectacular and moving ceremony. 48 parade groups took turns marching on the streets - from the military and police forces to the masses - each step was a reminder of glorious history, a testament to the strength of national unity.
48 parade groups marched on the streets one after another – from the military and police forces to the masses.
Behind the uniformity of every movement are months of sweat on the training ground. There are soldiers carrying 10 kg drums, 14 kg tubas, or 19 kg helicons. All of them are in perfect harmony in formation, as if they are not only marching for duty, but also carrying the indomitable spirit of their ancestors.
In particular, the presence of military delegations from China, Laos and Cambodia contributed to demonstrating the spirit of friendship and regional solidarity on Vietnam's important holiday. International and traditional images coexisted, creating a harmonious symphony between the past, present and future.
The army marched forward proudly amid the cheers and encouragement of the people on both sides of the road.
In the military band, there are soldiers carrying drums weighing 10 kg, tubas weighing 14 kg or helicons weighing up to 19 kg.
At each stop, where the soldiers rested, the affection between the army and the people was more evident than ever. Smiles, handshakes, words of thanks or moments when people jostled to take souvenir photos with the soldiers... all created a warm, sacred picture - where the distance between the army and the people was erased by trust and respect.
People were excited and moved when seeing helicopters and fighter jets flying in the sky.
Ho Chi Minh City residents poured into the streets, filled with flags and flowers, joining in the solemn atmosphere of the reunification day.
A group of young people were present since 8pm last night to wait for the historic moment.
The April 30th parade was not only a historical event, but also a moment of the people’s hearts. One April morning, in the city named after Uncle Ho, when the footsteps of soldiers mingled with the hearts of the people, the whole country seemed to move forward together – steadfast, proud, and full of hope.
