A get-together took place in Da Nang on Thursday for over 2,500 retired senior military officers at the rank of colonel, lieutenant colonel, regiment-level leaders, and equivalent or higher on the occasion of the 80^th founding anniversary of the Viet Nam People’s Army and the 35^th anniversary of the All People’s Defence Festive Day (December 22).

Secretary of the Da Nang Party Committee Nguyen Van Quang speaking at the meeting. Photo: LE HUNG

In his remarks at the event, municipal Party Committee Secretary Nguyen Van Quang reviewed the 80-year journey of building, fighting and growing of the Viet Nam People's Army. He also affirmed that the local armed forces have continuously deserved the trust and love of the Party Committee, the government and the people of the city, contributing to further embellishing the heroic tradition of the heroic army.

According to Secretary Quang, the outstanding feats and great achievements in building and defending the Fatherland of the army and people of Da Nang have been awarded many noble prizes by the Party, State and Government. This is the pride of the Party Committee, government, army and people of Da Nang, and also the glorious responsibility of today's generation.

"On this occasion, we pay tribute to late President Ho Chi Minh - the beloved father of the people's armed forces and General Vo Nguyen Giap - the eldest brother of the Viet Nam People's Army, along with countless cadres and soldiers who fell for the independence, freedom and reunification of the country. On behalf of the Party Committee, government and people of the city, I would like to acknowledge, commend and appreciate the great contributions of the city's armed forces, of the heroic Vietnamese Mothers, the Heroes of the People's Armed Forces, and the retired generals and officers in the city” he noted.

Authorized by the President, Secretary of the Da Nang Party Committee Nguyen Van Quang (third, left) awarding the Second and Third Class Fatherland Protection Medals to outstanding individuals. Photo: LE HUNG

At the same time, he called on people to pay tribute to the cadres, soldiers and people who sacrificed their blood and youth for the cause of national liberation and reunification, protection of independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Fatherland, and the process of building and developing the country and the city" Mr. Quang emphasised.

In order to achieve the highest targets and tasks in 2025, he appealed for retired military officers living and working in the city to continue to care, support and contribute ideas to build and develop the city sustainably.

On the occasion, five individuals who were former leaders and commanders at all levels in the army were awarded the Second and Third Class Fatherland Protection Medals from the President in recognition of their outstanding achievements in training, combat service, building the People's Army, strengthening national defense, and contributing to the cause of building socialism and defending the Fatherland.

Reporting by LE HUNG - Translating by M.DUNG