Communist Vietnam celebrating an important anniversary this month — 50 years since the reunification of that country under communist control. This anniversary commemorates what most in the West refer to as the “fall of Saigon.” It calls for retrospection, commemoration, and recognition for all those who lived through the chaotic warfare that forged this iconic turning point in history.
David Brill, an American journalist who experienced firsthand the fall of Saigon in 1975. He was invited back to Vietnam by the Vietnamese government to celebrate the anniversary. His presence highlights an often staggering transformation that has taken place between Vietnam and the United States since the end of the war. Brill’s heartfelt acknowledgment of the past and his experiences during that time serve as a poignant reminder of the lasting impacts of the conflict.
The month long celebrations are currently ongoing in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), where thousands line the streets for parades and opening ceremonies. Vietnamese military personnel proudly and smartly march in dress uniform down the city boulevards. Civilians of all ages are deeply engaged and involved in the commemorative process. This day almost became a historic turning point. It stands as a collective commitment to respect the courageous soldiers who fought and died in the war.
Reflecting on a Divided Past
The Vietnam War from 1955 to 1975 was a monumental catastrophe. It took the estimated lives of three million Vietnamese, 58,000 Americans and more than 500 Australians. The profound conflict was a source of lasting trauma for both countries, and 50 years later, the wounds are still fresh.
On this anniversary, citizens across the country are looking to remember and assess the human cost of endless war. As many Vietnamese can attest to escaping their homeland as refugees creating the phrase “boat people.” By April 1976, the first boat had reached Australia. This began a new chapter for those searching for refuge and opportunity far from the conflict that had engulfed their home country.
Here’s what David Brill had to say about what it was like to go back to Vietnam after so many years.
“To be invited back now for the 50th anniversary is a very moving moment, and personally I still carry a bit of guilt about what we did here.” – David Brill
His reflections are those of so many still, who struggle with their former ties to Vietnam. At the same time, Vietnamese citizens such as Huang Van Chia now undertake to stress that this is about the future.
“There’s nothing more precious than freedom and independence, and I’m very happy my country has now had it for 50 years.” – Huang Van Chia
Together they express hope for healing rather than hatred as both countries continue to work through a difficult past.
Celebrations and Commemorations
Their anniversary celebrations include exuberant parades down the wide boulevards, ending at the domed-palace Independence Palace, a former Saigon-Styled sprawling architectural marvel. In total, thousands of military personnel and police as well as around 13,000 civilians take part in this colorful, elaborate display of national pride. Civil-military cooperation Military delegations from neighboring countries like China, Laos and Cambodia participate in the festivities to demonstrate regional solidarity and cooperation.
Under the commemoration, officials have urged journalists to put the national interest above all else in their reporting. In justifying this move, a spokesperson from Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs underlined the need to promote values like benevolence and reconciliation.
“It is an occasion to honor the values of benevolence, of peace, of reconciliation and in the spirit of putting the past aside and striving towards the future.” – Vietnamese Foreign Affairs spokesperson
This call for connection strikes a chord particularly with Millenials and Gen Z who yearn to connect worlds divided by centuries of historical hurt.
Suan An, a young Vietnamese participant in the Digital Floating Lanterns Celebrations, shared her thoughts reflecting on the past.
“As a young person, I know the older generations contributed blood and tears for the people of today.” – Suan An
There’s no question about it—today’s youth have a profound sense of responsibility. They honor the sacrifices made in the past and labor to create a better future.
A Complex Relationship Moving Forward
The remarkable change in Vietnam-U.S. relations has been a focus of the anniversary. Indeed, hundreds of thousands of Americans cross Vietnam’s borders each year — including veterans who previously fought America’s longest war. This shift from adversaries to mutual respect highlights the healing process that both nations have undertaken over the past five decades.
Peter Mungkin, an Australian who has participated in various commemorative events, noted how striking it is that half a century has passed since the war ended.
“It’s a shock to realize it was half a century ago, but I can’t believe how gracious the people here are towards those from the other side of the conflict.” – Peter Mungkin
These sentiments reflect a wider acceptance that recognizes our common humanity above past divides.
Peter Thanh Ha recalled personally what remembrance means for those who died in the war.
“We call it a commemoration, to remember all the people who fought for South Vietnam, including the Australians who were over there.” – Peter Thanh Ha
His remarks struck a chord and still does. They think that honoring the past is about remembering it, not erasing it, in order to promote harmony.
Even as they celebrate this momentous occasion, many of the participants kept the ongoing struggles alive in Vietnam on their minds. Under this new governance, Thanh Ha expressed a wish to stand up for those who are still struggling.
“Even though it’s been 50 years, we still want to keep the fire burning for those still living under the dictatorship.” – Peter Thanh Ha
These voices bear witness to a continuing internationalist solidarity and fight for truth and human rights.
