VI
EN
In the solemn and enthusiastic atmosphere leading up to the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of Southern Vietnam and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025), Brigade 96 (Artillery Corps) carried out a special and meaningful mission. Recently, a convoy of military vehicles carrying 15 majestic 105mm howitzers traveled from Dong Nai to Ben Bach Dang Park, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, ready to deploy a spectacular ceremonial artillery display, contributing to creating memorable moments during this important occasion.
Each 105 mm cannon, weighing approximately 4 tons, is not just a weapon but also carries the imprint of history. Moving each of these "war machines" requires the coordinated effort and strength of six elite soldiers. In total, the formidable ceremonial artillery team comprises 233 outstanding officers and soldiers of the 96th Brigade, who will directly perform the ceremonial artillery firing.
Fifteen 105mm cannons were brought to Bach Dang Wharf by the 96th Brigade in preparation for the 50th anniversary of the reunification of the country.
In addition, the Brigade meticulously prepared a fence with 250 posts and a mat approximately 90 meters long, ensuring both security and aesthetics for the artillery position. The deployment site was situated on a solid, flat surface, thoroughly surveyed by experts, promising to produce uniform and resonant explosions.
Each cannon weighs approximately 4 tons and was towed from Dong Nai to Ho Chi Minh City. Each 105 mm cannon required six soldiers working together to move it.
On the historic anniversary, 18 105mm cannons (15 official and 3 reserve) will be positioned in the park, opposite Nguyen Hue pedestrian street. This is an ideal location, chosen for its unobstructed views and solemn atmosphere, perfectly suited for locals and tourists to fully appreciate this special ceremony as part of the series of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of the "liberation of the South and reunification of the country".
The artillery positions are placed on a flat, stable surface, producing a uniform explosion when fired.
According to a technical officer of the Brigade, this 105 mm howitzer system was originally a valuable war trophy captured from the US military during the years of resistance. Managed by Military Region 7 and later handed over to Brigade 96, these howitzers have been carefully and meticulously preserved and remain ready for combat missions and important ceremonies to this day.
During the 50th anniversary celebration of the reunification of the country, the ceremonial artillery force will use 18 105 mm cannons (15 official, 3 reserve).
The ceremonial artillery position of the 96th Brigade will be permanently established at Bach Dang Wharf from now until the end of the April 30th celebration. To ensure absolute safety and professionalism of the ceremony, the unit has assigned guards to be on duty 24/7 and has conducted daily artillery training. Training sessions include a preliminary rehearsal on April 25th, a general rehearsal on April 27th, and the official ceremonial firing of artillery on April 30th. Notably, almost every day, the artillery soldiers practice firing with primer rounds, creating loud explosions. The purpose of this training is to accurately assess the uniformity and rhythm of the artillery fire against the backdrop of the stirring "Marching Song."
In the official ceremony, 15 cannons will be divided equally among 5 platoots, with each platoon responsible for 3 cannons. It is expected that the ceremonial artillery will fire a total of 21 volleys, with 3 rounds (containing only explosives) fired simultaneously from 3 cannons in each volley. Thus, a total of 63 rounds will be used.
Each cannon weighs approximately 4 tons.
One of the biggest challenges for the ceremonial artillery team is ensuring that all three cannons in each salvo fire simultaneously, creating a uniform, unwavering blast. At the same time, each salvo must perfectly match the rhythm of the national anthem. The national anthem will play for approximately 54 seconds, and the task of the artillerymen is to fire 21 salvos precisely within this timeframe, creating a magnificent sound and visual spectacle that embodies the heroic spirit and momentum of the nation on this momentous occasion.
Officers and soldiers of Brigade 96 are completing the remaining tasks at the artillery position.
The meticulous and thorough preparation of the 96th Brigade is not only a testament to the high sense of responsibility of the artillery soldiers but also a profound act of gratitude for the sacrifices made by generations of ancestors who fell for the independence and freedom of the Fatherland. The resounding artillery fire along the Saigon River on the upcoming April 30th celebration will not only be the sound of victory and the joy of reunification, but also a reminder of the value of peace and national unity.
This ceremonial artillery emplacement, with its cannons that once witnessed a historical period, now becomes a symbol of a peaceful Vietnam, steadily moving forward, cherishing the past and looking towards a bright and prosperous future. It will be a special highlight, evoking pride and emotion in the hearts of every Vietnamese person as they celebrate a glorious historical milestone of the nation.
