On Wednesday, Vietnam celebrated the 50th anniversary of the conclusion of the conflict it refers to as the American War with a lively parade in Ho Chi Minh City. The event showcased soldiers, performers, and speeches praising what the nation’s communist leadership described as a ‘victory of justice.’
According to official reports, the gathering attracted tens of thousands, with many attendees camping out overnight to take part in the morning’s ceremonies.
Nguyen Thi Song Anh, an 18-year-old student, shared her experience amid a crowd of her high school classmates near the Opera House, saying, ‘The atmosphere was truly special. It was important for me to connect with my country and its history.’
The celebratory scenes, dominated by vibrant red and yellow colors symbolizing the Vietnamese flag, unfolded in front of upscale French and American brand stores, highlighting how far removed the city has become from the harsh realities of its wartime past.
Now home to nine million residents, Ho Chi Minh City—formerly Saigon—is a bustling urban center where modern skyscrapers tower over a few remaining wartime landmarks. The streets are filled with locally produced electric vehicles and young people capturing moments on social media.
