Vietnam Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Fall of Saigon

Vietnam marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War with grand celebrations in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring parades, air shows, and patriotic displays as thousands commemorated the reunification of North and South Vietnam. The events highlighted the significance of April 30, 1975, when North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, leading to the formal reunification of the country after a two-decade conflict that claimed nearly 60,000 American and around three million Vietnamese lives. Vietnamese leaders described the anniversary as a 'victory of justice over tyranny,' referencing the enduring unity of the nation. Residents expressed pride and nostalgia, recalling both the hardship of the war and the relief and joy of liberation. The celebrations also included personal reflections from those who experienced the war, alongside activities involving veterans and their families. Across the world, commemorations also recognize the sacrifices of veterans and provide opportunities for communities to reflect on the war’s legacy.