(VOvworld)- A night requiem was held at Son My village, Quang Ngai province on Friday to commemorate 504 innocent victims of the bloody massacre caused by the US military more than four decades ago. Forty-five years ago on March 16, US soldiers stormed into Son My village, Tinh Khe commune, opening fire at unarmed civilians. They killed a total of 504 people, including many elderly, women and children. Buddhist followers and village chiefs held a solemn mass for the 504 innocent people, hoping they would rest in peace. Candles were lit up above the graves of the unfortunate victims and along paths to the village’s cemetery. US war veteran Mike Boehm played the violin in front of the Monument dedicated to the massacre victims, in the hope of easing the lingering pain of the bereaved. The ceremony was also attended by sergeant-photographer Ronald Haeberle, who helped bring the massacre to life, shaking the world and the US as well. Returning to Vietnam this time, Ronald Haeberle had an opportunity to burn an incense to commemorate 504 innocent victims of the bloody massacre 45 years ago. He said: “I was hoping when I came on a day, I’ll be able to meet some of the survivors telling them that I was sorry for what happened that day. It’s great that some of the survivors can attend the ceremony. Those people should be honored. I try a lot for the good in everything. I know well what happened in the past. There’s no way that could be corrected. It happened. It’s a reality. Yet, we’re trying hoping to bring everybody together to get along”

Participants released 504 flowered lanterns into Thuan Yen canal where the US military opened fire at Son My villagers 45 years ago, sending a message of peace to people worldwide.