 Celebrations of 50th anniversary of the “Hanoi-Dien Bien Phu in the air” victory underway |
A national symposium on the “Dien Bien Phu in the air,” a major victory leading to the end of the war against US forces 50 years ago opened in Hanoi last Friday.
Jointly organized by the Ministry of National Defense, the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Communication and Education, the Ministry of Public Security and the Hanoi Party Committee, the symposium drew military experts and history witnesses who reiterated the position and significance and historical values of the 12-day-and-night campaign in December 1972.
To mark the occasion, many commemorative activities have been held in Hanoi and other cities and provinces. They included an exhibition themed “Silent moment” at the Hoa Lo prison relic site, an exhibition called “Dien Bien Phu in the air- a historic turning point” at the Vietnam Military History Museum, a documentary display featuring memories of the Hanoi-Dien Bien Phu in the air victory at the National Archive Center, a launch of 5 books celebrating the 50th anniversary of the victory, an exhibition themed “From the earth to the sky” at Thang Long Imperial City Relic Site, and an exhibition called “Epic of Dien Bien Phu in the air” in HCM City.
The Vietnamese Embassy in Moscow hosted a meeting to mark the occasion while the Moscow-Russia Language University organized a discussion of the victory to help Russian people, especially young people, better understand Vietnamese history. Valetina, who is studying at the University, expressed her admiration
"It was big fight and a great victory for the Vietnamese people and a manifestation of the Vietnamese spirit. Vietnamese people defended their independence and freedom. This great victory should be taught to every generation," said Valentina.
In late December, 1972, the Vietnamese army and people resiliently fought against US B52 bomber strikes for 12 days and nights, creating the resounding ‘Dien Bien Phu in the air" victory. The Vietnamese army and people shot down 81 aircraft of all kinds, including 34 B-52s. Hanoi forces alone shot down 23 B-52 strategic bombers and captured 43 pilots.
The victory forced the US to halt bombings in Vietnam and sign the Paris Peace Accords – an agreement to end the war, withdraw troops, and restore peace to Vietnam.