On Wednesday, representatives from the Da Nang Department of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs offered incense and laid a wreath at the Phuoc Ninh Cemetery in Hai chau District’s Nam Duong Ward to mark 160 years since the French colonialists attacked Da Nang, and began the war to invade Viet Nam in 1858. The wreath carried the words ‘Eternal Gratitude to the Heroic Martyrs’.

Youth Union members from the Department of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs pacing incense sticks on graves at the Phuoc Ninh Cemetery

The participants observed a minute’s silence to commemorate the heroic martyrs who laid down their lives for the nation’s re-unification. They, then, placed incense sticks on over 1,500 graves at the cemetery.

The Phuoc Ninh Cemetery has become a popular destination for educating local residents, especially the younger generations, about patriotism.

As part of a series of activities to mark 160 years since the French colonialists attacked Da Nang, and began the war to invade Viet Nam in 1858, an exhibition themed ‘Resistance war against the French-Spanish coalition forces’ is taking place at the Hoa Vang District Martyrs’ Cemetery, Khue Trung Ward, Cam Le District from 29 August - 2 September.

Jointly organised by the Museum of Da Nang and Cam Le District’s Culture and Sports Office, the exhibition aims to raise public awareness about the historical values and significance of the fight against the French-Spanish coalition forces (1858 – 1860), as well as encourage locals uphold their patriotism that helped Vietnamese people fight against invaders, and their responsibilities for preserving the Hoa Vang District Martyrs’ Cemetery relic site.

On display at the event are 85 documents and images about the vital role of Da Nang in the resistance war against the French-Spanish coalition forces, strategic tactics of the French colonialists, invasion developments, and significant contributions made by historical generals.