Celebrating Milestones: Vietnam People’s Army and National Defense Day

On December 10, a special gathering was held by the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of Defense to honor the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) and the 35th anniversary of the All-People’s National Defense Day.

The ceremony saw participation from top officials of the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of Defense, along with Heroic Vietnamese Mothers, Heroes of the People’s Armed Forces, and Labor Heroes. It also included leaders from provincial and municipal veterans’ associations, totaling around 300 distinguished veterans nationwide.

General Phan Van Giang, the Minister of Defense, expressed his delight in bringing together veterans in Hanoi for this significant event, coinciding with the approach of the 2025 New Year.

In his address, General Giang highlighted the current global, regional, and national contexts, outlining the actions taken by adversarial forces and sharing key accomplishments within military and defense sectors for 2024. He also laid out vital goals and strategies for the year ahead.

Notable activities planned for December include:

• The inception of Corps 34, resulting from the merger of Corps 3 and Corps 4.
• A national seminar celebrating the VPA’s 80 years of establishment and growth.
• A session of the Central Military Commission.
• Hosting international delegates at the 2nd Vietnam International Defense Exhibition.

The defense exhibition, taking place from December 19 to 22, aims to attract military leaders from around 40 nations and will feature over 400 booths, marking a significant increase from the previous event in 2022. Participants will include countries renowned for their advanced economies and military strength.

General Giang pointed out that this exhibition serves as an excellent opportunity to engage with leading defense companies such as Boeing, Airbus, and Lockheed Martin. He stated, “These collaborations aim to develop high-level weaponry and enhance our human resources.”

He also expressed that the VPA’s history of success is fundamentally tied to the support from the Party, State, and citizenry, alongside the effective collaboration with various agencies, including the Vietnam Veterans Association.

General Giang commended the veterans for their steadfast partnership with the Ministry of Defense, acknowledging their critical role in shaping military policies and directions.

He encouraged veterans to keep inspiring Military personnel and to provide ongoing support to strengthen the Central Military Commission, the Ministry of Defense, and other armed forces.

Lieutenant General Be Xuan Truong, Chairman of the Vietnam Veterans Association, recognized the association’s endeavors to overcome obstacles and promote solidarity among its members.

Veterans have played an active role in fortifying political institutions and advancing social and economic initiatives, receiving accolades from local governments and the community.

The association remains dedicated to building a strong organization, nurturing capable and politically minded members, and upholding the legacy of Uncle Ho’s soldiers.