On the afternoon of August 12, 2025, at the Vietnam Military History Museum (Hanoi), the exhibition “Fulfilling the Oath of Independence” officially opened, marking the beginning of a series of commemorative activities celebrating the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and Vietnam’s National Day (September 2).
From the very first steps into the exhibition space, visitors are transported back to the fervent days of August 1945. The striking red of the national flag, black-and-white historical photos, the solemn melody of Tiến quân ca (Marching Song), and yellowed revolutionary newspapers come together to evoke a profound atmosphere, one that reverberates with the heartbeat of a nation’s memory.
Senior Lieutenant General Trương Thiên Tô, Deputy Director of the General Department of Political Affairs of the Vietnam People’s Army, together with other delegates, viewed the design concepts created for the National Day celebration.
In his opening remarks, Colonel Lê Vũ Huy, Director of the Museum, emphasized: “Over the past 80 years, guided by the sacred oath taken at the Declaration of Independence ceremony, our military and people have continuously fought and sacrificed for national independence and the happiness of the people.” His statement paints a vivid picture of a heroic history from defending the fledgling revolutionary government, to the resounding victory at Điện Biên Phủ that shook the world, and culminating in the historic Spring Victory of 1975 - milestones in the long journey to uphold that solemn vow of independence.
The delegates tried using virtual reality technology to recreate the photo taken in front of the podium on September 2, 1945.
The exhibition showcases more than 300 valuable artifacts, images, and documents carefully selected from military and civilian archives. Its content is organized into three parts, symbolizing three chapters of the nation's epic narrative:
Part 1: Autumn of Independence
This opening section recreates the dynamic atmosphere of the days leading up to the uprising, highlighting the careful preparations by the Party and President Hồ Chí Minh. Among the highlights are revolutionary newspapers from 1941–1945 and a reproduction of the royal seal “Hoàng đế chi bảo” - a powerful symbol of the transition from monarchy to a democratic republic. At the heart of this display is the iconic image of President Hồ Chí Minh reading the Declaration of Independence, along with the original document itself - the founding charter of modern Vietnam.
Part 2: Fulfilling the Oath
This section recalls the arduous yet glorious years of resistance: the wars against French colonialists and American imperialists, and the defense of national borders. Every artifact tells a story of bravery and sacrifice, embodying the indomitable spirit and unwavering determination of the Vietnamese people to protect their hard-won independence.
Part 3: The Glory of Vietnam
The final section radiates a bright, hopeful tone, reflecting Vietnam’s achievements in nearly 40 years of Đổi Mới (Renovation). From a war-ravaged and impoverished nation, Vietnam has risen to become a developing country with growing global stature. A highlight of this space is the replica of the A Pa Chải Border Marker - a sacred symbol of national sovereignty-underscoring the unwavering resolve to safeguard territorial integrity. The role of the Vietnam People’s Army in building a people-based national defense and participating in UN peacekeeping missions is also prominently featured.
A creative highlight of the exhibition is the application of augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Visitors, especially young people, can interact directly with history through vivid images and archival footage. Trần Minh Anh, a student from Vietnam National University, expressed her excitement: “Technology makes history more accessible and relatable to our generation. It allows us not just to read about the past, but to truly engage with it.”
Another emotional highlight is the display of the “Uncle Hồ’s currency” collection - the first banknotes issued by the revolutionary government. Veteran Nguyễn Văn Hùng shared with emotion: “These notes are more than just a medium of exchange - they symbolize the economic sovereignty of an independent nation. So many lives were lost to create and protect them. Seeing them again, I feel the true cost of today’s peace.”
As the exhibition comes to a close, Colonel Lê Vũ Huy reaffirmed: “This exhibition is both a tribute to the past and a message to today’s and future generations - a reminder of the responsibility to preserve and promote the achievements of our revolution, and to continue fulfilling the sacred oath of independence.”
The exhibition is open to the public free of charge from August 12, 2025, welcoming military personnel, civilians, and international friends. For those unable to visit in person, key content and featured images will be available on the Museum’s official website, ensuring that the sacred and eternal Oath of Independence continues to resonate in the hearts of Vietnamese people - today and for generations to come.
A glimpse of the exhibition:
Translate by MINH KIÊN
VNQD