Thousands of war veterans and local people in the central province of Quang Tri province floated flower garlands and coloured lanterns to commemorate the 68th Day of Invalids and War Martyrs on July 27.
Tens of thousands of flower garlands and coloured lanterns float on Thach Han River
This is the commemoration for Vietnamese soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 81-day battle in 1972 to protect the Quang Tri Citadel.
The battle began on June 28 and lasted until September 16, when the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) defeated the North Vietnamese at the ancient citadel of Quang Tri and recaptured most of Quang Tri Province.
During the battle, the ARVN, backed by the United States military, expended more than 80,000 tonnes of ordnance.
Quang Tri's ancient citadel was the focus of the battle, and many soldiers from the People's Republic of Vietnam laid down their lives. Tens of thousands of soldiers on both sides were killed or wounded.
On July 25, 1972, 5,000 artillery shells rained down on the ancient citadel, breaking down its 12m thick walls. Many died in fighting along the Thach Han River.
Veterans commemorate their fallen comrades
Buddhist monks and nuns
A music show by the river bank to honour the fallen